2 weeks Ago By Field Level Media
The third annual running of Formula One's CRYPTO.com Miami Grand Prix is officially underway with practice Friday around the 3.363-mile Miami International Autodrome constructed around Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla.
Even before the cars took the track for the first of three United States grand prix weekends, it had already been a busy time in the paddock. Drivers participated in news conferences on Thursday, answering questions that had as much to do with activity off-track as they did expectations of this race. Two-time defending Miami Grand Prix winner and reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen took it all in with a calm, business-like disposition -- answering as many questions about his Oracle Red Bull Racing team losing one of its key personnel members -- technical director Adrian Newey next season -- as questions about whether he can win three in a row in South Florida.
Verstappen -- who led Friday's opening practice and won pole position for Saturday's Sprint Race -- was optimistic about both situations, the race and the team's future sans Newey. "I don't need to convince anyone (to stay) because at the end of the day, if someone really wants to leave, they should leave," said Verstappen, who added that he spoke with Newey before the talented engineer announced he was leaving the team on Wednesday. "If you think that is the right decision for yourself, your family or you seek a different challenge, you have to do it.
" As for the race, last year's polesitter, Vers.
