Miami F1 GP on the Backburner for 2019

After weeks of discussions and even plans for a circuit drawn up, Miami’s bid to host an F1 race next year has been scrapped. Liberty Media, F1’s American owners, stated their intention to take the sport to downtown Miami in October of 2019 earlier this year.

However, the Miami chiefs have delayed a crucial vote until the month of September. It was originally scheduled to take place on July 26. So, for now, any decision regarding the future of the Grand Prix is on hold for at least a year. An official announcement confirming the delay is expected next week.

F1 owners, Liberty Media, hope that the Miami race can still get green lit for 2020. However, doubts will be raised by critics following the setback.

The proposed layout for the street circuit has already undergone a number of changes. This is because a few Miami residents have expressed their displeasure. Their concerns are likely due to the potential disruption that the race will cause.

Liberty Media has openly expressed their desire to have more races in America. They have already proposed New York and Las Vegas as potential venues in the future. The Miami deal would have been the first one to be landed in the post-Bernie Ecclestone era.

Sunday’s race at Hockenheim played host to the 11th round of a record-equalling 21-race calendar. Sadly, its current deal is set to expire at the end of the season. With the failure of Liberty Media to reach an agreement to stage a grand prix in Miami. It means that the number of F1 races could drop to 20 next year.

Meanwhile, coming back to the 2018 season, 11 rounds are up and the paddock has one more race until the summer break. Lewis Hamilton already has the advantage heading into Hungary, but Vettel will be aiming to bounce back.