Miami GP sets record US TV viewership for Formula 1

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Formula 1's popularity in the United States continues to surge, with last weekend’s Miami Grand Prix shattering viewership records.

A record-breaking 3.1 million viewers, on average, tuned in on ABC to witness Lando Norris' milestone maiden career win in F1, according to ESPN.

The number peaked at 3.6 million viewers, comfortably surpassing the previous record of 2.6 million set during the inaugural Miami race in 2022.

The impressive numbers aren’t just a one-off phenomenon. Miami now boasts the top three highest live US television audiences for F1 races in history, with last year's race also attracting a sizeable 2.1 million viewers.

Several factors contributed to the record-breaking ratings, as reported by RACER:

-Accessibility: The race being broadcast on the free-to-air ABC network undoubtedly played a crucial role in reaching a wider audience.

-Favorable Timezone: As the first North American race of the season, Miami benefitted from a more favourable time zone - compared to Austin and Las Vegas that take place later in the year - that catered to viewers on the East Coast.

-Early Season Excitement: The Miami race taking place earlier in the calendar adds another layer of intrigue. With the championship still wide open, there is undeniably heightened sense of excitement among fans.

Read also: Formula 1 revenue tops $500 million in first quarter 2024

Norris' thrilling victory, achieved after a strategic gamble under the Safety Car, further fueled viewer interest. His triumph over reigning champion Max Verstappen only added to the drama, keeping fans glued to their screens.

Formula 1’s Sprint format, introduced for the first time in Miami, also proved successful. An average of 946,000 viewers tuned in on ESPN for Saturday’s short-form race, marking the highest viewership for this format since its debut in 2021.

The strong US audience numbers highlight once again the growing passion for Formula 1 in the United States. It underscores the sport's strategic decision to expand its presence in the North American market, and paves the way for continued growth and fan engagement in the years to come.

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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.