Miami Grand Prix Predictions: Alonso capable of wrapping up another podium finish

Phillip Horton

3 May 2023

Formula One has journeyed halfway across the world from Azerbaijan’s Baku to the surroundings of Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium for its second drive in The 305. 

The voyage to Miami is the first of three trips to the United States in 2023, with its established grand prix in Austin and the highly-anticipated Las Vegas Strip debut still to come later this season. Miami remains a newbie in Formula One parlance with the Miami International Autodrome only debuting in 2022 after several years of work to bring the championship to the Sunshine State. 

A purpose-built temporary circuit was designed on the campus of the Hard Rock Stadium, adding Formula One to the venue’s vast sports portfolio, which has included hosting America’s flagship Super Bowl. 

The layout of the 5.4km circuit features a range of corners, is wide enough for side-by-side action, and, while the walls are close by, there is sufficient run-off for drivers to err and escape unharmed. Organisers have also undertaken a full repaving since its debut in a bid to alleviate off-line grip weaknesses that compromised the quality of the racing last year. 

Verstappen up top

There’s only one sample set at our mercy from Miami, and it’s little surprise given his recent form that Max Verstappen is the sole victor so far at the International Autodrome. 

Verstappen started third on the grid last year but swiftly overtook the Ferrari drivers to grasp a lead, which he preserved across the remainder of the grand prix. 

The Dutchman has not been beaten on US soil in his last three races, with victories at Austin in 2021 and 2022 en route to his respective world titles. 

Red Bull still unbeaten

Red Bull has had an enormous advantage in race performance at each grand prix in 2023 and has converted that into four victories, while also boasting three one-two finishes.

Entering Miami, Verstappen and Sergio Perez have struck two wins apiece, with the former holding a slender six-point advantage over his teammate in the championship. 

Perez has proven to be a street circuit specialist with all five of his Red Bull victories having come at wall-lined facilities, including his two wins this year in Jeddah and Baku. Miami has a more conventional circuit style, but it could be an intriguing battle between the Bulls for the win in Florida. 

Expect Ferrari, Aston Martin and Mercedes to be in a tight fight for the final spot on the podium. Perhaps Fernando Alonso can sneak into third once again.

Keep an eye on the sky

Last year’s muggy inaugural Miami Grand Prix dodged the downpours. However, due to the tropical climate, South Florida is prone to frequent bursts of rain, particularly in the afternoon when Formula One’s most important track activity takes place. 

Severe storms, with record rainfall, recently caused havoc close by and forced the temporary closure of Fort Lauderdale’s airport. Sections of the Miami International Autodrome were also underwater, though did not cause damage to the venue. 

If rain of such intensity strikes during qualifying or the race, teams will have to react swiftly to the change of conditions – and there is a risk of sessions being red-flagged and delayed. 

Miami Grand Prix 2023 Predictions

Red Bull both cars to finish Top 3 @ 1.61
Fernando Alonso to finish Top 3 @ 1.83


Phillip Horton

3 May 2023

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