Verstappen, Hamilton omitted from FIA press conference lineup ahead of Miami GP

The FIA announced the Miami GP press conference lineup, leaving Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton out for the first time this season. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli will speak for the drivers, and the schedule now includes a longer first practice.

Why it matters:

Their absence shifts media focus to the emerging title fight and reduces exposure for two of the sport’s biggest brands, highlighting the changing narrative as Antonelli’s lead and Russell’s challenge take centre stage.

The details:

• Drivers – Thursday: 13:00 (Hulkenberg, Pérez, Piastri); 13:30 (Hadjar, Sainz, Antonelli).
• Team bosses – Friday 14:30: Binotto (Audi), Vasseur (Ferrari), Vowles (Williams).
• FP1 – 90 min from 12:00‑13:30, moving all prior activities 30 min earlier.
• Formula 2 runs on the weekend to fill the feeder‑series gap.

What's next:

The longer FP1 gives teams extra set‑up time after a month‑long break, which could prove decisive for the sprint and race. Post‑session briefings will feature the top three from sprint, qualifying and the Grand Prix, ensuring a steady flow of media content. Fans can expect a close duel between Antonelli, Russell and the Red Bull‑Audi pair, while the missing Verstappen and Hamilton open the door for surprise results.