F1 drivers coy over "strange" Miami track surface after late repairs

Miami Grand Prix

F1 drivers coy over "strange" Miami track surface after late repairs

The Miami International Autodrome was repaired on Thursday

Ewan Gale

Friday 6 May 2022 19:35 Updated: 19:40

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Charles Leclerc and Daniel Ricciardo are hoping the "strange" new track surface at the Miami International Autodrome "stays intact" when F1 cars hit the circuit for the first time.

The inaugural Miami Grand Prix has the whole sport hyped ahead of what is set to be a spectacular weekend, with a week of high-profile media events culminating in an opening ceremony trackside at the Hard Rock Stadium.

But on the eve of the first track running at the venue, turns seven and 17 saw track repairs being made after the surface began to break up, with only VIP hot laps and the FIA safety and medical cars having toured the layout.

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Asked if he was concerned about the repairs before the weekend had started, Ferrari driver and championship leader Leclerc replied: "I am not sure what the repairs are, to be honest, so I cannot comment too much.

"I have been on track and the only thing that was a little bit strange was the Tarmac. It feels like it is something different to what we are used to driving on during the year.

"But in terms of repairs, I don't know what is going on. I was not aware."

Ricciardo hoping for a "smooth and fun" weekend

McLaren driver Ricciardo has lapped the track in a supercar in the build-up to the race weekend and was able to feel the difference in the track surface.

"I did a couple of hot laps on Wednesday I think it was and a little bit like Charles said, it feels different to maybe at least the last few surfaces we have raced on in the last few races," he added.

Addressing the repairs, Australian Ricciardo said: "I hope it stays intact and I hope everything is cool and we have a smooth and fun weekend.

"Time will tell but for everyone's sake, hopefully, everything stays intact and it is all good."