…Researched and contributed by Solomon Thomas.
Formula One is set to return to the Miami International Autodrome on May 7 for the Miami Grand Prix, but recent social media photos have shown the race track submerged in water.
This has led to concerns that the track may not be in optimal condition for the event.
Submerged Track
The Miami circuit has been a topic of criticism among drivers even before the floods.
Ricciardo and Fernando Alonso, for instance, expressed their disappointment with the track.
However, the flooding could exacerbate the issues, and according to Local 10, the circuit faces its biggest problems when the weather conditions are adverse.
Workers were recently seen wading through knee-deep water behind one of the circuit’s temporary stands.
Organizers’ Dilemma
Despite the challenges, the organizers still have time to get the track into good shape.
However, the Miami circuit received scathing remarks from drivers last season, which has raised concerns about its ability to meet Formula One standards.
In fact, Alonso stated, “The tarmac is not F1 standard…this has to change for next year. It’s very difficult to race like this.
” Ricciardo also condemned the track, adding, “It’s not that it’s just like, ‘oh, it’s challenging’, but it’s just you literally have to just stay on that one line otherwise you’re not really on the track anymore.”
Conclusion
Formula One’s return to Miami Grand Prix is under threat from the floods that have engulfed the city in recent weeks.
Drivers’ earlier criticisms of the circuit’s standards have only added to the concerns about the race’s ability to meet the required standards.
However, there is still time to address the issues and get the track into the best shape possible before the event.
Whether or not the organizers will succeed remains to be seen.