The 2026 Miami Grand Prix was as much a spectacle off the track as it was on it. From Lionel Messi's garage visit to F1's foray into golf, here's a look at the weekend's overlooked moments.
Miami never fails to impress, and the 2026 Grand Prix was no exception. While the on-track drama was eventful, with Lando Norris reclaiming victory in the Sprint and Kimi Antonelli's record streak, there was plenty happening off the circuit as well.
Lionel Messi was the star off the track, seen around the Mercedes garage with his kids collecting autographs from Kimi Antonelli and George Russell. You can bet there were mutual starstruck moments. Messi also met fellow Argentine Franco Colapinto, who had just enjoyed a stellar week with a Buenos Aires roadshow and his best-ever Grand Prix finish.
For Cadillac and Haas, Miami was the first of three home races. Cadillac's debut home race was celebrated with US-themed liveries and fan activities, including a visit from ambassador Terry Crews. Sergio Perez even took the stage with rapper Fat Joe. Haas kicked off their celebrations by ringing the stock exchange bell in New York—a unique start to their home race week.
McLaren hosted a fan event at Regatta Harbour, showcasing legendary cars and featuring appearances from Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and F1 legends like Mika Hakkinen. The event was a delightful nostalgia trip for racing fans.
Williams announced a partnership with Marvel, featuring Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon in a comic taking on Doctor Doom. Albon tried his hand at baseball in a Miami Marlins jersey, scoring points for team spirit if not skill.
Isack Hadjar took a break from the track to explore Florida's Everglades by hovercraft. The Frenchman managed to dodge alligators while reaching impressive speeds, clearly a natural at the controls.
F1's golf connection deepened with drivers hitting nearby courses. Carlos Sainz teamed up with Viktor Hovland, while Perez partnered with Scottie Scheffler. Even Charles Leclerc joined Rickie Fowler, albeit with more canine-themed gear than golfing prowess.
F1 drivers mingled with Miami Dolphins players at their shared venue, with Antonelli making quite an impression. Meanwhile, Audi's Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto enjoyed a casual kickabout with Inter Miami players.
This weekend's paddock was teeming with celebrities. Patrick Dempsey chatted with Yuki Tsunoda, while Jimmy Fallon and DJ Khaled visited Red Bull. Reid Wiseman, fresh from space, presented Lando Norris with his Sprint trophy. Rafael Nadal waved the chequered flag, rounding off a weekend of star power.
Grid Gigs returned with Manuel Turizo performing before the race, setting the tone for an unforgettable weekend.
Miami was a whirlwind of activity, both on and off the track, making it a memorable stop on this year's F1 calendar.