MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix returns to South Florida this weekend, with race festivities set to begin Friday at Hard Rock Stadium, where local athletes and celebrities got an early high-speed preview of the track.
Local 10 sports director Will Manso took part in a promotional hot lap Thursday, describing intense heat while riding portions of the Miami International Autodrome at high speed ahead of race weekend.
Manso said he reached speeds of about 160 mph during his lap around the circuit, which features the same layout Formula 1 drivers will compete on this weekend.
“Today, we got a chance to get on the track ourselves in a car, go 160 mph, and give it a shot,” he said. “It was a great experience.”
Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. was among the local athletes participating in the event, riding with Formula 1 drivers during a hot lap experience.
Jaquez said he was struck by the speed, precision and braking performance of the cars, calling the ride one of the most memorable experiences he has had.
He also noted the difficulty of handling the high-speed turns and rapid deceleration, adding that it gave him a new appreciation for the sport and its drivers.
Other local athletes and sports figures also took part in the promotional laps, including Miami Dolphins personnel, as part of a broader fan and media preview ahead of the weekend.
Manso said the experience highlighted both the physical intensity of the sport and the spectacle surrounding the Miami Grand Prix.
The Miami Grand Prix weekend runs Friday through Sunday, with officials urging fans to plan ahead for transportation, arrival times and parking restrictions due to expected crowds.
Parking will require pre-purchased passes, while shuttle services will be available for ticket holders traveling to and from the venue. Rideshare drop-off locations are also designated around the stadium complex.
Click here for a closer look at a list of essential details to help you plan your Miami Grand Prix experience
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