Formula 1 drivers say the Miami Grand Prix hasn't lost its luster ahead of its third rendition Sunday in
The Miami Grand Prix will start at
"I think the sport's gotten bigger here," American
"Every city that I go to, people are excited. It's now a sport here in the States. Before, it was just an event that arrived once a year. Now, we're kind of a part of the culture here, which is really, really cool."
Celebrities are again expected to flock to the event, watching the high-performance vehicles eclipse speeds of 200 mph. Sports stars
Three-day general admission tickets for this year's event are available for
Verstappen, the winner of the last three Formula 1 championships, has won four of five races this season and 21 of 23 dating back to last season.
He holds a 25-point lead on
Many of the drivers faced questions about their futures Thursday, as the sport's landscape continues to change because of driver-team rotations and personnel moves.
Hamilton, one of the most decorated Formula 1 drivers in history, will move to Ferrari in 2025, replacing Sainz. He said it has been "difficult" to race this season as the move looms, but he continues to give his best effort to
"Right now my heart is still with
Oracle
Perez said it was "not ideal" for Newey to leave his team.
"Someone like Adrian has been tremendous to our team, to our organization," Perez said. "And he's obviously a very good friend of mine as well in this time that we spent together. But at the end of the day, there are times in life. ... I think he spent like 20 years at
Perez remains without a signed contract for 2025, but said it's "just a matter of time" until his future is decided. He also said "everything remains an option."
Verstappen, who is signed until 2028, told reporters that he is not interested in leaving the
"It's really important about having the quickest car, and of course a good environment," Verstappen said. "That's what we have currently, and that's also what I asked for. As long as the environment is right and we have the quickest car, then it's quite straightforward."
Perez, Leclerc, Sainz and Norris join Vestappen as the top expected contenders at the 2024 Miami Grand Prix. Sargeant, who ranks No. 21 of 22 in the driver standings, is among those with the longest odds to win.
Sprint qualifying for the event will be held Friday, with a sprint race set for Saturday afternoon. Race qualifying will start at
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