Leclerc fastest in Miami practice, Verstappen finds speed

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc seized the spotlight in the sole practice session for the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix sprint weekend, clocking the fastest time on a track buzzing with anticipation. After a month without racing, teams rolled out significantly updated machines, and Leclerc, in his scarlet Ferrari, navigated the Hard Rock Stadium circuit with a blistering 1:29.310 in the Miami sun. The Monegasque driver's performance signals a strong start for Ferrari as they aim to challenge the dominant Red Bulls.

Reigning world champion Max Verstappen, driving for Red Bull, secured the second-fastest time, trailing Leclerc by 0.297 seconds. Last year's winner, Oscar Piastri, placed third for McLaren, highlighting the ongoing competition among the top constructors. The session also saw notable performances from seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in his Ferrari, who qualified fourth, and 19-year-old Kimi Antonelli in a Mercedes, who finished fifth. Antonelli, currently leading the world championship, experienced some engine issues and did not complete a lap on soft tires, indicating potential areas for improvement.

The extended 90-minute practice session, a deviation from the usual 60 minutes, was implemented to give teams more track time following rule adjustments and a lengthy hiatus. This break, caused by the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races due to regional tensions, has heightened the desire for on-track action. The qualifying session for the sprint race, where crucial points are awarded, followed later in the day. Other notable drivers included George Russell in sixth for Mercedes, also facing engine troubles, and Lando Norris of McLaren in seventh. French drivers Pierre Gasly and Isack Hadjar rounded out the top ten.