How to prepare for a new track: Sim and team preparations ahead of Miami

The addition of Miami presents a new challenge to teams and drivers alike as Formula 2 visits North America for the very first time in its 10-year history.

Miami International Autodrome is a brand-new venue for everyone, and preparations are already well underway in the build-up to Round 2 of the 2026 season.

But what does that actually involve? We asked Martinius Stenshorne about what he and Rodin Motorsport will be up to ahead of flying to Florida and what goes into learning a new track.

“I don't think it's very different from other events, to be honest. It's the usual sim prep, we did two days already this week in the factory on the sim, and then we're going next week for a day or two again. So, in that respect, it’s the usual sim prep, and then some sim at home as well.

“Of course, some pre-event meetings will happen. The team also has no data for there. So, I think it's going to be a bit of a challenge for everyone, but hopefully we do well. Obviously, the team needs to build up data which goes into prepping for a race a lot usually.

“Usually Alex and I, we go to the sim together and it's quite a long day. There’s only one, so we alternate. Then it’s a small lunch break, and then back into the sim.

“Then between the sessions, we are looking into the data, just like at the real track, seeing what we're doing different to each other and trying to learn from each other.”

Going into the specifics of what the driver will be looking to get out of their pre-race weekend work, Stenshorne says that it’s all about getting the references learned as quickly as possible before driving the track in real life.

From there, the Norwegian says that it’s then about getting into a rhythm actually out on track and working with the team as effectively as possible to deliver usable feedback for the remainder of the weekend.

READ MORE

• Bruno Michel on 10 years of Formula 2, F1 Champions and the future
• FORMULA 2’s 10TH SEASON: Alex Albon on his favourite moments and advice to the next generation
• Gabriele Minì on revamping his approach and title fight lessons from F3 to F2

“As a driver, we’re on sim, which is getting more and more realistic. But getting all the references right for the weekend, driving-wise, track usage, I mean, the track model as well, it's very accurate. So, more or less it’s exactly the same as it will be in real life.

“So, it's just about knowing exactly what to do when you hit the track. You don't have so much time when you're at the race weekend in the car. So, knowing everything perfectly before you get there is always very helpful.”

Speaking about the specific challenges of the Miami weekend, Stenshorne says it will be a race between teams to hit the ground running as quickly as possible.

The circuit also offers a mix of corners for the teams to set the cars up to handle, with low and high-speed sections to take into account.

“So far, I really love everything. Long straights, fast corners, slow corners, it's going to be an interesting challenge, I think, as well. Obviously, I haven't been there before, but I think it's going to be a good challenge.

“For both the teams and drivers to get everything right because none of us have been there before, that's just going to be the biggest challenge.

“We were looking good in Melbourne, a shame to not come away with more points, to be honest. The speed was good, but not many points, unfortunately. Anyway, I am very happy with how the pace was.

“First weekend of the year, you never know where you're going to be. I think we showed very good speed. Hopefully, we have the same speed again in Miami and can take home some more points."