McLaren brings upgrades and fan push to Miami Grand Prix weekend

“It’s great to be back in Miami, and what a fantastic place to host our most ambitious US fan experience yet with McLaren Racing Live: Miami,” chief marketing officer Lou McEwen said. “Very few fans experience a race in person, so creating moments that bring them into our world feels incredibly special.”

Formula 1 returns after a four week break following cancellations in the Middle East, with teams heading to the Miami International Autodrome for the second sprint weekend of the season.

McLaren said the enforced pause allowed time to analyse its car and prepare updates, with new components arriving for the race.

“These will include the introduction to the first phase of MCL40 developments with upgrades delivered to the front and rear brake ducts, bodywork, floor and rear wing,” the team said.

Drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri also spent time in the simulator and took part in a Pirelli tyre test at the Nürburgring alongside Mercedes, gathering further data after an earlier test in Saudi Arabia was cancelled.

Free Practice 1 has been extended to 90 minutes to maximise running ahead of sprint qualifying later on Friday.

The Miami race will be run over 57 laps of the 5.412 kilometre circuit, with Pirelli supplying the three softest compounds.

Off track, McLaren will host a five day fan event at Regatta Harbour, featuring live screenings, show runs and appearances from team members.

“Bringing our brand closer to fans is something we care deeply about,” McEwen added. “We have a lot of fun activations planned, as well as a show run with some of our iconic cars. I can’t wait to see our fans, as we head into the first American race of the season.”

McLaren dominated last year's race with Oscar Piastri claiming victory over teammate Lando Norris, who won the Sprint Race a day earlier.