The 2026 grid takes on the Miami International Autodrome for the first time, as Formula 2 (F2) makes its debut in North America for the Miami GP. With no prior data and limited real-world experience at the circuit, Round 2 presents a completely fresh challenge for both teams and drivers.
Among those preparing for the unknown is Martinius Stenshorne, who outlined the extensive work behind the scenes to get up to speed ahead of the weekend.
Simulator work key to preparation for the F2 Miami GP
Despite the new venue, Stenshorne explained that the preparation process remains largely the same, with a heavy focus on simulator running.
“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.”
He highlighted that the lack of historical data makes things more difficult, particularly for the team as they build their understanding from scratch.
“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.”
Working closely with his teammate, the Norwegian detailed how their shared simulator sessions play a key role in preparation.
“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.”
Translating sim work to the real track
For Stenshorne, the challenge for the F2 Miami GP will be about translating the simulator work into real-world on track performance as quickly as possible.
“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.”
A unique challenge for teams and drivers ahead of Miami
The Miami layout, with its mix of long straights, high-speed sections and tight corners, is expected to test both car setup and driver adaptability.
“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.”
With no prior benchmark to rely on, the weekend could come down to which teams can adapt the fastest and extract performance early.
Carrying momentum from Melbourne
Looking back at the season opener in Australia, Stenshorne was encouraged by the underlying pace, even if the results didn’t fully reflect it.
“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.”
With a clean slate and plenty of unknowns heading into Miami, the Norwegian will be aiming to convert that early-season promise into a stronger points haul in Round 2.
