Miami Grand Prix Faces Rain‑Related Safety Concerns with 2026 F1 Cars

Context Drivers expressed concern that the 2026 power units, which can deploy up to 350 kilowatts of electrical power, may be difficult to control in wet conditions. The cars’ intermediate tires struggle to reach operating temperature, and the flat Miami circuit offers little drainage, allowing water to pool. Engineers are reviewing simulation data to estimate how the extra electrical deployment affects braking distances on a slick surface.

Key Facts - Weather models predict an 88% probability of rain and a 53% probability of thunderstorms for Sunday’s race. - The FIA announced that the boost button, which adds 150 kilowatts of power when the track is wet, will not be usable in those conditions. - Florida statute mandates that any outdoor event must be suspended if thunderstorms are detected nearby, grounding medical helicopters and stopping all on‑track activity regardless of track wetness.

What It Means Teams must decide whether to run the intermediate tires or switch directly to full wets, knowing that tire warm‑up could be delayed. The ban on the boost button reduces peak power by 150 kilowatts in the wet, potentially lowering straight‑line speeds but also limiting overtaking opportunities. If lightning is detected, the race will be stopped under state law, adding a non‑weather‑related interruption risk. Officials say they are monitoring the forecast and have contingency plans, similar to last year’s approach. Analysts will watch whether the FIA will adjust power limits further or issue additional wet‑weather directives before the start.