Antonelli Hit by Technical Trouble as Mercedes Stumble in Miami Practice
Formula 1’s Miami Grand Prix weekend got underway with an extended and slightly unusual opening practice session, giving teams 90 minutes on track instead of the standard one-hour format. The change came as part of the sprint weekend structure, with only a single practice session scheduled, prompting officials to allow extra time for teams to fine-tune their cars.
The longer session also followed a rare gap in the calendar caused by the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian and Bahrain Grands Prix, meaning teams arrived in Miami eager to maximise track time and evaluate upgrades. While some outfits brought new components to test, others—such as Aston Martin—opted to run without any significant updates.
Despite the additional time, the session itself ran relatively smoothly, with few major interruptions. However, things took a turn for Mercedes in the latter stages. Young driver Kimi Antonelli saw his running cut short due to a power unit problem, preventing him from completing a planned qualifying simulation on soft tyres. The issue not only disrupted his programme but also raised early concerns for the Silver Arrows heading into the competitive sessions.
Mercedes’ difficulties were compounded by a lack of outright pace from his teammate George Russell. Russell could only manage the sixth-fastest lap time, finishing over 0.7 seconds adrift of the session leader. While practice times are not always fully representative, the gap suggested that Mercedes may not yet have the performance to challenge at the very front in Miami.
At the top of the timesheets was Charles Leclerc, who delivered an impressive lap to set the benchmark for the field. Ferrari’s pace will no doubt be encouraging as they look to build momentum during the sprint weekend format.
Elsewhere, Red Bull drew attention not just for their performance but for a notable technical development. The team unveiled a revised rear wing design—nicknamed the “Macarena”—which appears to flex more aggressively than similar concepts seen on rival cars, including Ferrari’s. The innovation is likely to spark discussion and scrutiny as teams continue to push the boundaries of aerodynamic regulations.
With only one practice session completed and crucial sessions still to come, the early signs from Miami suggest a mixed picture across the grid. While Ferrari appear competitive and Red Bull continue to innovate, Mercedes face early questions after an interrupted start to their weekend.