The Formula One season resumes this Sunday with the Miami Grand Prix, a race that carries significantly more weight than usual. With the calendar disrupted by geopolitical tensions earlier in the year, this event serves as both a welcome return to racing and a critical juncture in the championship battle.
The Championship Picture: Antonelli’s Momentum
Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli heads into the Miami weekend as the clear favorite, looking to secure his third consecutive victory. Following dominant performances at the Chinese and Japanese Grands Prix, Antonelli holds a nine-point lead over his teammate, George Russell, who sits in second place in the standings.
This race is a pivotal moment for Antonelli. A win would solidify his early-season dominance and extend his buffer at the top of the table. Conversely, any slip-up could allow Russell to close the gap, intensifying what is shaping up to be a fierce intra-team rivalry.
Why this matters: The early season often sets the tone for the entire championship. Antonelli’s current form suggests Mercedes has found a strong pace, but the pressure of leading the standings is a new challenge for the young driver.
Context: Racing After Disruption
The Miami GP marks the fifth edition of the event since its introduction to the calendar in 2022. However, this year’s race occurs against a backdrop of significant uncertainty. The scheduled Grands Prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were canceled last month due to the war in Iran, compressing the calendar and altering team strategies.
This disruption highlights the fragility of the global sports schedule and raises questions about how teams will adapt to an irregular rhythm of competition. For fans, it means a denser schedule ahead, with every race counting more heavily toward the final title.
When and Where to Watch
The race takes place at the Hard Rock Stadium complex in Miami Gardens, Florida. The start time is 4:00 p.m. ET on Sunday.
For international viewers, the start times are:
* UK: 9:00 p.m. BST
* Australia: 6:00 a.m. AEST (Monday morning)
* US Pacific Time: 1:00 p.m. PT
How to Stream the Miami Grand Prix
Viewing options vary by region, with new streaming deals coming into effect for the 2026 season.
🇺🇸 United States: The Apple TV Era
F1 broadcasting in the US has shifted to Apple TV, which begins its five-year broadcast run this season.
* Subscribers: Stream live via the Apple TV app.
* Free Trials: New Apple device buyers (within 90 days of purchase) may access a three-month free trial. Other new subscribers can utilize a seven-day trial via the Apple TV app or Prime Video, or a 30-day trial through the Apple One bundle.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom: Sky Sports
The race remains with Sky Sports, covering practice, qualifying, and the main event.
* Subscribers: Watch via the Sky Go app.
* Non-Subscribers: Use Now TV for flexible, day-pass access without a long-term contract.
🇨🇦 Canada: TSN
Canadian fans can tune in via TSN and its streaming service, TSN Plus.
* Cable Subscribers: Access is included with existing TSN packages via provider login.
🇦🇺 Australia: Kayo Sports
The primary streaming option is Kayo Sports, which carries Fox Sports’ F1 coverage.
* Cost: Subscriptions start at approximately AU$25.
* Alternative: Foxtel subscribers can also watch via Fox Sports.
Conclusion
The Miami Grand Prix is more than just a return to racing; it is a strategic checkpoint for Kimi Antonelli’s title hopes and a test of resilience for the F1 community following recent cancellations. With streamlined streaming options globally, fans are well-positioned to watch as the championship battle intensifies.
