While preparing for the second annual Miami Grand Prix, Formula One drivers got to have some fun by going through football drills with members of the Miami Dolphins in what is being referred to as the “2023 Miami Drivers Combine.”
Drivers were coached by Dolphins players who were in town for offseason workouts as they raced through a football-themed obstacle course to see who could finish with the best time. The course consisted of five drills — a cone drill, agility pads, pop-up pads, ladder drills, and throwing a football into a net.
Pierre Gasly of Alpine Racing won with a time of 21.63 seconds, while lifelong Miami Dolphins fan Logan Sargeant finished fourth.
Sargeant is one of four drivers making his Miami debut this weekend.
“It’s just amazing to be here,” he told F1. “And it’s going to be nice to actually take part in my first-ever car race in America. It’ll be pretty cool, and I’m excited about experiencing the atmosphere. It’s always good in America with the fans and also to have my friends and family here. I’m excited to have that home atmosphere for the first time and to enjoy every part of the weekend.”
Race week also involved a jersey swap between Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and defending Miami Grand Prix champion Max Verstappen.
There was also a question and answer segment with local students, and Dolphins’ players and team executives got to drive on the track and help with pit stop practice.
“I think I’d have a problem just fitting in the car itself. These guys — I’m kind of double their size. But I’d love to try and squeeze in there and get a couple of laps, that’s for sure,” said Dolphins offensive lineman Dan Feeney, according to The Palm Beach Post.
The second annual Miami Grand Prix will take place at 2:30 p.m. CT on Sunday at the Miami International Autodrome.
Formula One has a 10-year contract with the track for the 20-driver race that covers 5.41 kilometers (about 3.36 miles) per lap for 57 laps near Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.
