Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role in Formula 1 – the Miami organizers are confident that a double header with Canada is possible
The world needs to become more sustainable, and Formula 1 needs to do the same. The premier class calendar in particular plays a key role in this, as unnecessary flights and long journeys can be avoided if Formula 1 travels in blocks across the continents. Those responsible in Miami can imagine a USA-Canada double-header.
The Miami-Canada block could help Formula 1 achieve its sustainability goals. Formula 1 wants to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. There are already European blocks on the calendar, but traveling between Europe, America and Asia causes a lot of emissions. In 2025, the race in Miami is sandwiched between Saudi Arabia in Asia and Imola in Europe. That’s not ideal.
“We like our slot on the calendar,” says Tyler Epp, President of the Miami Grand Prix. “We like the early date, and we’re the first race in the U.S., which fits well with the later race in Las Vegas. Because of other activities – football and the Miami Open – we can’t move our date. “
Formula 1 must decide
The Canadian date is always between two unsuitable races in the calendar. In 2025, it will take place on June 15: There are three races before that and Europe, then six on the continent. As Miami cannot be postponed, it would be possible to give Canada a new date. Epp sees no problem with this.
“That’s a question for Formula 1, we don’t make any specifications,” he says. “We have a slot where there are hardly any other activities, but like Formula 1 and the rest of the industry, we want to promote sustainability.” Formula 1 could be working on something, but those in charge in Miami don’t know the details yet. “What I like about Formula 1 is that each promoter can work independently and uniquely.”
“A race in Montreal is very different to a race in Miami or Las Vegas,” continues Epp. “That’s why the fans watch different races locally. That’s what makes the sport so special and I would have no qualms about putting Montreal around Miami, especially to achieve the sustainability goals. “
Five races in North America
There are currently five races in North America: Mexico, Canada and three races in the USA. As the countries are very large and the distances between the venues are huge, the Grands Prix do not get in each other’s way. “When Las Vegas came along, we were already worried about our VIP customers, but there was no negative impact,” says Epp. “The products are different enough and we work closely together to reach the American Formula 1 fans.
“Las Vegas has been good for the business, the communication with the people in charge there is very positive,” Epp continues. “The markets are different and local. Our average is around 40 percent from South Florida, another 20 percent are also very local and only then do people come from other countries. “
