Miami GP track to feature three DRS zones

©AstonMartin

Formula 1 drivers will be able to rely on three DRS zones to boost their overtaking opportunities during this weekend's inaugural Miami Grand Prix.

Miami's winding street circuit located around the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens unfolds over 5.412 km and features 19 corners.

But the high-speed nature of the layout should produce an exciting show on the track and an abundance of battles.

The track's first DRS zone stretches from the exit of Turn 9 to Turn 11, with an activation point located on the exit of Turn 8.

Read also: Miami's final sector labeled 'mistake generator' by track designer

The second DRS zone runs along the track's long back straight between Turns 16 and 17, while a detection point situated between Turns 17 and 18 will command the third and final DRS area located on the main straight between Turn 19 and the first corner.

"The best overtaking spots will almost certainly be at the end of the DRS zones – most likely Turns 11 and 17, with a more uncertain chance at Turn 1," said Craig Wilson, the FIA's head of vehicle performance who collaborated on the circuit's design.

"On the first lap, or after Safety Car restarts, we may see some overtaking into Turn 4 if cars are racing through the first three corners."

According to simulations, qualifying times are expected to be in the 1m28s range, with average speeds of approximately 223km/h.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.