New Track Guide: Miami GP

Formula 1 is heading back to Florida, with the news that Miami will host the first (since 1959) race in the state, in 2022. F1 president Stefano Domenicali revealed it's a 10-year deal, and -although the exact date has yet to be confirmed- the first race is expected to take place in the second quarter of 2022.

After initially trialling circuit layouts in Downtown Miami in August 2017, the promoter, Formula 1 and Apex Circuit Design started working on the current site, a few kilometres north two years later. The team have simulated a total of 36 different potential layouts, before landing on the current approach, featuring 19 corners, three straights, potential for three DRS zones, and an estimated average speed of 223km/h (138mph).

From formula1.com:

"It’s a temporary circuit with a permanent feel"

"The track – which will have a top speed of around 320km/h or 198mph – will have a street circuit vibe, similar to Melbourne’s stunning Albert Park that hosts the Australian Grand Prix, as the site is used for other purposes during other times.

However, the layout will be more akin to a permanent circuit. It’s predominantly flat, but there are some small undulations to the land, which designers have integrated into the circuit.

The main elevation change can be found between Turns 13 and 16, with the track heading over an exit ramp and under various flyovers across uneven ground. For example, the Turn 14-15 chicane has an uphill approach, with a crest in the middle of the chicane and then drops down on exit.

With the Hard Rock Stadium – which features a 12-cabin gondola cable car system, the first to be built at any stadium in the US no less - taking centre stage, organisers plan to use the venue for spectators and facilities, with later iterations of the design relocating the pits and paddock club complex directly adjacent to the north side of the stadium."

Click here to see the first simulation lap onboard of the track. F1 and Apex Circuit Designs used the Assetto Corsa game to give us a first sneak peek of the track.