Apex was appointed Lead Technical Consultant for the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix in 2015, initially undertaking feasibility analysis and preliminary design for a proposed downtown Miami street circuit. As the project evolved, Apex led the redesign, engineering and delivery of the event at the internationally recognised Hard Rock Stadium, integrating an FIA Grade 1 Formula 1 circuit within a complex multi-use sports and entertainment precinct.

The 93-hectare Hard Rock Stadium campus hosts the Miami Dolphins, Super Bowl events, the Miami Open international tennis tournament and major entertainment events, creating significant operational and technical constraints. Apex provided concept and preliminary designs to secure stakeholder approval, alongside preliminary cost consultancy, developed design and engineering services.

Following commitment to construction, Apex oversaw first-year delivery, owner’s representation and management of the annual recurrent works programme. Delivery of this highly complex project required coordination of six professional engineering and architectural firms and management of more than fourteen specialist vendors. 

The 5.41 km FIA Grade 1 circuit features 19 corners, variable track widths between 10 m and 15.24 m, an average lap speed of 128 mph and top speeds approaching 200 mph. The track was designed to encourage high-speed side-by-side racing and overtaking opportunities while maintaining extensive runoff areas and enhanced safety provisions.

Apex successfully delivered a world-class racing circuit that culminated in the successful inaugural 2022 Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, which attracted a record 2.6 million US television viewers.

Satellite images courtesy of www.skywatch.com.