Miami Grand – Lionel Messi, Antonella and other A-list guests arrive at Miami’s F1 weekend as race officials bring Sunday’s start forward to avoid storm risk.
Lionel Messi and Antonella turned heads at the Miami Grand Prix as the Inter Miami star arrived at Miami International Autodrome alongside their three sons.
The high-profile family appearance added extra glamour to an already star-studded race weekend, with Misryoum noting that Messi posed for photos while mingling with guests including Maia Reficco, the partner of Alpine driver Franco Colapinto.
For F1 fans, this moment is less about off-track headlines and more about how big events in Miami keep drawing global attention well beyond the paddock.
Meanwhile, the guest list also featured tennis great Rafael Nadal, who was seen speaking with Spanish drivers Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz, along with LIV Golf’s Jon Rahm.
Adding to the non-sporting buzz, late-night host Jimmy Fallon and rapper DJ Khaled were also spotted making their way into the venue as the weekend builds toward Sunday’s showcase.
This blend of sport and entertainment matters because it reinforces Miami’s status as an F1 stop where the atmosphere is as much part of the spectacle as the racing itself.
On the track side, Misryoum reports that race officials made a significant scheduling change for Sunday after assessing weather conditions. The Miami Grand Prix is set to start at 1pm ET instead of 4pm ET, brought forward to reduce disruption from a potential thunderstorm later in the day.
Officials confirmed the revised start time was agreed by the FIA and Formula One Management following Saturday qualifying, aiming to protect the safety of drivers, fans, teams, and staff while ensuring the best possible chance to complete the race in suitable conditions.
In Florida, where major events face postponement or cancellation rules related to lightning, the earlier kick-off provides a clearer window for teams to execute their plans and for supporters to enjoy the full event.