Capacity increases for F1’s Miami GP, São Paulo GP

Organisers of Formula 1’s Miami Grand Prix and São Paulo Grand Prix have revealed plans to up capacity at their venues.

Miami International Autodrome hosted a sold-out crowd on May 6-8 as the motor-racing championship staged its first-ever event in the US city. Around 85,000 fans attended each day of the event, which incorporates Hard Rock Stadium, home of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins.

Ahead of next year’s race, organisers have now spelled out alterations to the event plan. This includes the installation of 56,000 grandstand seats around the track, an increase of 3,000 from this year.

The Autodrome’s fake marina, one of the major talking points from the inaugural grand prix, is also set to remain in place. Located on the inside of turns six, seven and eight, the installation of 10 yachts, surrounded by a solid vinyl water-effect base, generated huge attention for the event on social media.

Miami F1 president, Tyler Epp, told Motorsport.com: “The whole team is working hard to ensure we deliver a fantastic year two experience for our fans, and it’s very exciting to be able to release the tickets to those on the pre-registered list next week.

“2023 will see the return of the iconic MIA Marina and Hard Rock Beach Club which were some of the most popular parts of the MIA campus. We have listened to our fans from last year and plan to increase shade, water stations, and will be adding additional viewing platforms around the circuit.

“In year two, we’ll continue to showcase the best of Miami – the culture, entertainment, food, music, and community.”

São Paulo GP

Meanwhile, ahead of this year’s race on November 11-13, São Paulo GP organisers have announced the creation of the Heineken Village.

Backed by the title sponsor of the Brazilian grand prix, officials said the new facility has been created to serve increased ticket demand for the event. Located in the centre of the Autódromo José Carlos Pace in Interlagos, Heineken Village will allow for a further 5,000 fans to attend.

The 30,000 square metre site will offer views 30 metres away from the track, with organisers stating fans will be able to take in about 70% of the circuit. The Village has been inspired by music festivals and will feature DJ sets and other entertainment options, in between the racing.

Big screens and an array of food and beverage offerings will be available, with tickets priced at R$1,790 (£299/€339/$332) apiece for the three days of the event. Alan Adler, CEO of São Paulo F1 GP, said: “We have always had the vision of making the São Paulo GP a spectacle that goes beyond the track. 

“Last year, we already showed this with novelties such as the Capital Inicial show. Now, in partnership with Heineken, we have advanced this concept, creating a space that will provide new and unprecedented experiences for the public.”