The Miami Grand Prix is considering switching to a night race

The Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, which debuted in 2022, could undergo a significant change in the coming years, as organizers are exploring the possibility of turning this event into a night race, as is currently the case in Singapore, Abu Dhabi, and Jeddah. Tyler Epp, president of South Florida Motorsports, the promoter of the Miami Grand Prix, mentioned this option during a recent interview with Autoweek.

Although a night race is not scheduled before 2026, Epp has revealed to evaluate the feasibility and impact of such a change. "We are conducting a study to see what it would look like and what impact it would have," he said. However, he adds that this change would come with challenges that should be considered from the initial discussions.

The constraint of jet lag

He notably points out two important elements that will need to be addressed. The first concerns the global broadcasting of Formula 1. A night race in Miami would push back broadcast times everywhere else and could have a negative impact on viewers watching the race live, so maintaining accessibility for viewers in different time zones is a key aspect.

Indeed, a large part of the F1 audience is linked to Europe, so by holding the race for example at 8 p.m. in Miami, it would be 2 a.m. in Europe. Historically, the promoters of night Grand Prix races have tended to favor Europe as the main audience base. Thus, the Singapore Grand Prix, even though it takes place at night, European viewers can watch it in the early afternoon.

The troubles caused to the residents around the circuit

Another critical factor is the impact on the local community of Miami Gardens. Epp specifies that the project will analyze the potential disruptions that a twilight or evening race could cause to residents. We must ensure that we are aware of the impact this has on the Miami Gardens community and make sure that we are ahead of the game.

In addition to this project, the Miami Grand Prix is also working on other aspects of improving the event. The GP organizers have committed to hosting sprint races for the next two years, following positive feedback and increased attendance on Saturdays. This format change has already proven beneficial. There are plans to increase attendance next year, but Epp clarifies that this growth will be modest. The focus remains on maintaining and enhancing the quality of the fan experience, rather than simply maximizing the number of spectators. "We are very focused on the fan experience, so just flooding the market with more people and having more people on campus creates bottlenecks and things we would like to avoid," he explained.

To retain the fan base, notably local supporters from South Florida representing about 40% of the total audience, a new membership program is currently being implemented. This program aims to stabilize this base by offering them benefits such as discounted tickets, the possibility to spread payments over a year, experiences around the F1 weekend, as well as points of contact outside the weekend.

As the Miami Grand Prix enters its third year of Formula 1 in 2025, organizers continue to look for ways to enhance the event's appeal by trying to strike a balance between the sport's needs, fans, and the local community. They are also striving to create a unique identity for the Miami race, distinguishing it from the Austin and Las Vegas Grand Prix. A night race remains a possibility as Miami seeks to establish its place on the Formula 1 calendar. Even though challenges persist, organizers demonstrate an encouraging approach and commitment to creating a high-quality event in Miami, whether in the middle of the afternoon or under the spotlight, boding well for the future of Formula 1 in this city.