Formula 1 makes its comeback this weekend with the Miami Grand Prix set to roll out on Sunday, ending a hiatus of more than a month without a race. Organisers have had to reshuffle the timetable at the last minute because of an approaching thunderstorm threat.
To dodge the worst of the weather, the start time has been pulled forward by three hours, now kicking off at 6 p.m. UK time (which is 1 p.m. local Miami time). This early start aims to give the race a better chance of finishing before heavier rain moves in later in the afternoon.
Leading the drivers' championship is the young Italian sensation Kimi Antonelli, who secured pole position for the main event. Antonelli is looking to widen the narrow six‑point advantage he holds over his Mercedes teammate George Russell. The early part of the 2026 season has been dominated by Mercedes, who captured the first three races. However, a strong showing from McLaren in Saturday’s sprint race – a one‑two finish – hinted that the upgrades introduced during the five‑week break after the Japanese Grand Prix have begun to tighten the competition at the front of the grid.
After losing the sprint, Antonelli answered back by clinching pole for the full‑distance Grand Prix. He will line up ahead of a mixed field that includes Max Verstappen, who qualified second for Red Bull, and Charles Leclerc, who will start third for Ferrari. Their presence guarantees a lively battle for podium spots, especially given the unpredictable weather that could bring rain into the mix.
The 2026 cars, all brand‑new designs, have yet to be tested in wet conditions, adding another layer of intrigue for fans and teams alike. Miami entered the F1 calendar in 2022, and its street‑circuit layout is famed for providing ample overtaking opportunities.
The long straights feed into a series of heavy‑braking zones, particularly at the end of the back‑straight leading into Turn 11 and again into the technical Turn 17 complex. Drivers who can nail their braking points and stay close to the walls will reap the benefits, while any mistake is likely to be punished by the unforgiving barriers that line the circuit. The forecast for Sunday calls for thunderstorms, which is why the race start has been moved forward. Organisers hope the event will be completed before the heavier rain arrives, preserving the spectacle for spectators both on‑site and at home.
Fans are encouraged to use the Chrome browser for the most accessible video player experience on Sky Sports' platform. Here is a quick rundown of the weekend schedule: - Sunday May 3, 2:25 p.m.: Formula 2 Feature Race - 4:00 p.m.: Miami GP build‑up programming - 6:00 p.m.: The Miami Grand Prix (live on Sky Sports Main Event) - 8:00 p.m.: Post‑race reaction and Chequered Flag analysis - 9:00 p.m.: "Ted's Notebook" recap Sky Sports subscribers can tune in via several avenues. The race will be broadcast on Sky Sports F1 from the first practice session on Friday afternoon through to the Grand Prix on Sunday. The Sky Sports app also offers live streaming, with the added novelty of being able to "go onboard" with any driver of your choice for a more immersive experience.
For viewers who do not have a Sky subscription, the NOW streaming service provides a flexible alternative. You can purchase a day pass or a month‑long membership, both of which are contract‑free and can be cancelled at any time. NOW gives you access to all twelve Sky Sports channels, including every Sky Sports+ stream, and works across more than 60 devices.
If you’re on the move, a dedicated F1 live blog is available for real‑time updates throughout the weekend. After the race, Sky Sports will upload highlights to the app shortly after the chequered flag, allowing you to catch any missed action.
Additional resources for Sky customers include a guide on how to locate or create a Sky iD, which is required for accessing the service. Information on NOW membership pricing and how to sign up can be found on the official NOW website. In summary, the 2026 Formula 1 season resumes in Miami with a high‑stakes Grand Prix that promises drama from start to finish. Whether you prefer to watch on television, via the Sky Sports app, or stream through NOW, there are plenty of options to suit every fan.
Tune in at 6 p.m. UK time on Sunday to see Kimi Antonelli defend his pole, watch the battle between Verstappen and Leclerc unfold, and experience the excitement of a potential rain‑affected race on one of F1’s most vibrant street circuits.