Max in Miami: 'One of my favourite places in the world'

Published on 30 April 2026 by Stefan Meens

Due to the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian and Bahrain Grands Prix, Max Verstappen enjoyed an unexpected break from Formula 1 in April. It means the Oracle Red Bull Racing driver heads to this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix refreshed.

“It was a great break, I wish it lasted longer”, smiles Max as he addresses the media in the Miami paddock. “It was great to race in different series, and I really enjoyed my time at home. But even with a break like this, it feels great to be back. I like being in Miami, it’s one of my favourite places in the world.”

After a challenging start to the 2026 season, although hopeful, Max remains realistic. “The team has really pushed to understand our problems and work on improvements. Hopefully we can be closer to our competitors and escape the midfield battle.”

During the April break, a news feature that garnered attention was the announcement that Max’ race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, will leave Oracle Red Bull Racing. “Of course, I knew of the decision a bit earlier and we had good conversation. It would be stupid of me to stop him moving when he gets such a great opportunity. Times change in your career, and this is a great opportunity for him”, said Max, fully supporting GP. “Our chemistry is great, which is rare in racing. It’s something I’ll have to establish again at some point, but as a team, we’ll keep pushing and looking ahead.”

Ahead of this weekend’s race, some rule tweaks have been announced, incl. ones that aim to improve the safety during wet conditions by limiting the use of active aerodynamics and by disabling boost mode. Although minor, the changes are a step in the right direction according to the four-time world champion: “We’ve had good conversations with Formula 1 and the FIA. The changes made won’t change the world, but it’s a starting point. I really hope we can make big changes for next year.”

Despite the huge safety improvements over the last few decades, motorsport remains inherently dangerous, as proven by Jos Verstappen’s heavy rally crash and a fatality during a NLS race. “Racing remains dangerous and sometimes it’s really bad luck. I could go back to the hotel tonight, slip in the shower and break my neck. It’s really tragic that these things sometimes happen.”

Check the Max Verstappen Miami Collection, featuring T-shirts, hoodies, sweaters, shorts, caps, bucket hats, flasks, mugs, tote bags and scale models (1:2 and 1:4) of Max special Miami helmet: https://store.verstappen.com