Miami Grand Prix History: Fast Cars, Bright Lights & Big Moments

The Miami Grand Prix History is a thrilling tale of ambition, innovation, and speed in the Sunshine State. While the Miami Grand Prix may be a recent addition to the Formula 1 calendar, the city’s motorsport legacy stretches back decades. From the roar of IMSA sportscar races in the 1980s to the high-stakes CART IndyCar battles at Tamiami Park and Homestead-Miami Speedway, Miami has long embraced the adrenaline of racing.

The dream of hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix came to life in 2022, when Hard Rock Stadium became the centerpiece of a bold new era for American motorsport. Today, Miami stands not only as a glamorous global destination but as a city with deep racing roots and an electric future in Formula 1.

Miami Grand Prix History: Racing Roots in the Sunshine State

Miami’s connection to racing began in the 1980s. In 1983, promoter Ralph Sanchez launched IMSA sportscar races at Bayfront Park. The event later moved to Bicentennial Park, attracting bigger crowds and broader attention. Through the mid-1980s to 2010, the city hosted CART IndyCar races across venues like Tamiami Park and Homestead-Miami Speedway, keeping the motorsport flame alive for nearly three decades.

From Vision to Reality

Efforts to bring Formula 1 to Miami kicked off in 2018 with plans for a downtown race near PortMiami. After delays and planning adjustments, the vision shifted to Hard Rock Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins. On May 8, 2022, the Miami Grand Prix officially roared to life at the Miami International Autodrome under a ten-year deal.

The Circuit That Turned Heads

The 5.41 km Miami International Autodrome offers a thrilling ride with 19 corners, three straights, and three DRS zones. Its layout—wrapping around an NFL stadium—blends challenging turns with high-speed drama, delivering a spectacle that’s both technically demanding and visually unique.

From day one, Miami brought the show. The inaugural race drew global icons like Michelle Obama, David Beckham, and Michael Jordan. And with elements like a faux marina, palm-lined walkways, and buzzing hospitality, it wasn’t just a race—it was a vibe.

That vibe keeps growing. Attendance rose from 242,955 in 2022 to over 275,000 in 2024, solidifying Miami as one of the most exciting and stylish stops on the F1 calendar.

Looking Ahead: Miami GP 2025

Scheduled for May 2–4, the Miami GP 2025 is shaping up to be even bigger. With heart-stopping racing, sun-soaked energy, and a city that knows how to put on a show, it’s the perfect race weekend for fans new and seasoned alike.

Be Where It Happens

The engines are warming up, and the countdown to Miami GP 2025 has begun. Want to feel the roar of the cars, the energy of the crowd, and the thrill of one of Formula 1’s most glamorous events? 

Read more about Spain GP history