The Formula 1 roadshow is heading somewhere new for the upcoming race. Miami will host a Grand Prix for the first time from 6th-8th May after its delayed addition to the race calendar. From the looks of some of the pictures, the race organisers could have done with a little more time to iron out the kinks in the design around the circuit.The designers have drawn inspiration from the glitz and glamour of the Monaco Grand Prix, whilst also looking to recognise Miami’s own beachfront. Local resident objections prevented them from being able to incorporate the marina as they would have wished. The faux marina they have gone for instead, was perhaps their attempt at a nod to that heritage. Sadly, social media hasn’t been quite so kind in their assessment with many users being critical. Fake water to go with the fake marina. Whilst others have likened it to a throwback to racing games of yesteryear. Some have been able to be a little more light-hearted and are almost disbelieving of the pictures and laughing at the ridiculousness of it all.
We may be judging them too harshly as the circuit come set designers will likely be working around the clock in the upcoming week to get everything looking as they wish, but as it stands the water does look a little odd.
Come Friday practice though it will be back to the serious business of racing, as the teams get to grips with the new circuit, fake marinas and all.
Charles Leclerc sits on top of the standings with a 27-point lead over Max Verstappen in 2nd despite his error in the last race in Imola which saw him slide from 3rd to 6th place as the race drew to its conclusion.
Whilst Max Verstappen has been feast or famine this season with two retirements to go with his race victories.
Lewis Hamilton, so unfortunate to miss out on the title last season is battling with his new Mercedes.
Even with the all time F1 great at the wheel there is no hiding from the gaping chasm between the Mercedes performance and that of Ferrari and Red Bull.
IMOLA, ITALY - APRIL 24: Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrates on the podium during the F1 Grand Prix of Emilia Romagna at Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari on April 24, 2022 in Imola, Italy. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Perhaps a new circuit will play into his hands with his vast race experience and ability to adapt to conditions.
Hamilton is looking to win a race at a 32nd different circuit to further extend his record, with Michael Schumacher his nearest rival with 22 different circuits.
On Sunday it will be lights out and away we go. Let's hope that Miami delivers us an incredible race, just be sure not to get distracted by their shiny new Marina.