MIAMI GARDENS, Florida – The Miami Grand Prix of Formula 1 turned into a vibrant spectacle, where youth and speed intertwined to captivate the crowds present. The fourth edition of the race, held at the Miami International Autodrome, was a clear reflection of the growing fervor for F1 in the United States, especially among young people.
Evander Holyfield, former world heavyweight champion, observed the atmosphere from the ground floor, wondering if the cheers were for him. The answer became clear upon seeing the euphoria unleashed by the young pilots. Timothée Chalamet, the actor from “Dune”, was received with enthusiasm, but even his fame paled in comparison to the energy generated by the young racers.
As the drivers emerged from the garages, the intensity of the screams increased proportionally to their age. Sir Jackie Stewart, F1 legend, commented on the importance of youth and speed in this sport.
The race proved Stewart’s assertion. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, both young talents, led the competition, solidifying their position in the championship. George Russell, Max Verstappen, Alex Albon, and Kimi Antonelli, the latter being the youngest driver to achieve a pole position, completed the list of standouts.
A Miami fan shared how his children, previously indifferent to F1, now woke him up on Sundays to watch the races, demonstrating the growing popularity of the sport among the new generations.
The passion for F1 in the United States has experienced a boom since 2020, driven in part by the series “Drive to Survive.” This phenomenon has transformed a sport traditionally followed by a specific audience into an event of massive interest, especially among young people.
Statistics reveal that 42% of F1 fans are under 35 years old, with significant growth among women aged 16 to 24. Anecdotal evidence supports these figures, as demonstrated by the enthusiasm at the Miami Autodrome.
A Fort Lauderdale fan recounted how, just as her father took her to see Dan Marino, she now shares her passion for F1 with her children, who admire Charles Leclerc.
Tom Garfinkel, responsible for the Miami Grand Prix, highlighted the joy of seeing families gathered at the event. The recent ten-year contract extension guarantees the race’s permanence in Miami until 2041, reflecting the importance of the United States in the future of F1.
After years of sporadic events, the United States now has three annual F1 races: Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas. This trio promises to establish itself as the epicenter of F1 in the country.
The energy of the young fans, who cheer on the drivers, reflects the passion for speed and the excitement of the sport. Piastri’s victory in Miami sparked an ovation that rivaled the roar of the powerful engines.
Christian Horner, Red Bull’s boss, acknowledged the vibrant energy present in the paddock, highlighting the connection between the drivers and the fans.
In short, F1 in the United States is experiencing a golden moment, driven by youth and speed, with a promising future on the horizon.
