F1 Update: Miami Grand Prix Faces Lightning Risk as FIA Issues Official Susp…read more
Miami Grand Prix Faces Lightning Risk as FIA Issues Official Suspension Protocol
The 2025 Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix is under threat from severe weather, with the FIA issuing an official warning and outlining race suspension procedures due to an increased risk of lightning.
Originally forecast with less than a 40% chance of rain, weather conditions have deteriorated rapidly at the Miami International Autodrome, with the likelihood of rain now soaring to 78% ahead of Sunday’s main event. The stormy forecast follows an already treacherous Saturday that saw the cancellation of F1 Academy’s Race 2 due to heavy rainfall, after drivers struggled to maintain control even behind the safety car.
FIA Prepares for Lightning Disruption
In response to the updated weather situation, Formula 1’s governing body released a formal statement confirming that the Grand Prix could be suspended at any moment if lightning poses a danger to the circuit area.
“In accordance with local public safety standards, there is a possibility that the race can be suspended due to risk of lightning strike at or around the circuit, in order to facilitate all personnel to ‘shelter in place’ in a relevant location,” the FIA announced.
Strict Guidelines Issued to Teams
All teams have now been instructed on the procedure should a lightning threat force the suspension of the race. Under Article 57 of the F1 Sporting Regulations, the race will be neutralized with all cars returning to the pit lane and stopping in the fast lane. Teams will be directed via the official FIA messaging system to move their cars back to the garages, where the garage doors must remain open until further notice.
The race will only resume once the race director deems the conditions safe, and a restart time will be published at least 18 minutes in advance.
Potential for Further Disruption
The FIA’s cautionary stance highlights the unpredictable and potentially hazardous conditions expected during the Miami GP. With the sixth round of the 2025 season already filled with drama, including penalties and intense competition at the front of the grid, the threat of lightning adds another layer of uncertainty to what promises to be an eventful race day.
Fans and teams alike now await further updates as weather continues to loom large over the Florida circuit.
