Formula 1 has reportedly closed plans to bring a Formula 1 Grand Prix to downtown Miami.
Liberty Media and Stephen Ross, who owns the Miami Dolphins American football team, have been working together to bring a race to the Florida city.
According to The Miami Herald, talks are still in place over the possibility of bringing the race to another part of the city.
Citizens of downtown Miami voiced their disapproval over the possible disruptions that an F1 race would bring.
However, the vice chairman and CEO of the Miami Dolphins Tom Garfinkel says that the Hard Rock Stadium, which is situated much further north of the original planned layout, could provide a backdrop for a potential race.
"We want to do something great for Miami, but unfortunately when we finally received the detailed report of what it would take to build out a street circuit each year, the multiple weeks of traffic and construction disruption to the port, Bayfront Park and the residents and businesses on Biscayne Boulevard would have been significant; which Steve and I felt defeated the purpose," he said.
"A lot would have to happen for us to be able to do it [at the stadium], but we have over 250 acres of land so adding an F1 race to where Hard Rock Stadium and the Miami Open sit means we can create a world-class racing circuit that is unencumbered by existing infrastructure.
"It also means better ingress and egress, better amenities, unprecedented sight-lines, and opportunities for the best hospitality anywhere in racing.
"We only want to do it if we can create world-class racing, a great fan experience, and a lot of value for Miami."
Replies (3)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
It's almost as if it was a bad idea from the start. A downtown race in Miami only really sound good in terms of accessibility.
f1dave
Posts: 782
It's becoming more about putting on a show and less about racing.
mcbhargav
Posts: 1,332
Good decision.