Racing

Miami GP Appoints New President Katharina Nowak

The Miami Grand Prix organization announces a significant leadership transition, with Katharina Nowak stepping into the role of President. This move marks a new chapter for the event, which has rapidly gained prominence in the Formula 1 calendar.

A New Era of Leadership for the Miami Grand Prix

Katharina Nowak's Ascent to the Presidency of the Miami Grand Prix

The Miami Grand Prix recently announced the appointment of Katharina Nowak as its new president. This makes her the youngest individual to hold this prestigious position within the organization. Her promotion was confirmed by Tom Garfinkel, the managing partner of the Grand Prix, highlighting confidence in her capabilities.

Tyler Epp's Legacy and Event Growth

Nowak succeeds Tyler Epp, who played a pivotal role in the significant expansion and success of the Miami Grand Prix since its inception in 2022. Under Epp's guidance, the event achieved a sold-out attendance of 242,955 spectators over its three-day weekend in its inaugural year, making it the most attended event at the Hard Rock Stadium. In 2023, it captured the largest U.S. television audience in history for an F1 race, with 3.1 million viewers on ABC. By 2025, attendance further surged to 275,000, and the event's contract with Formula 1 was extended until 2041, a testament to its growing influence.

A Seamless Transition and Continued Commitment to Excellence

Katharina Nowak moves into her new role from her previous position as vice president of business operations for the Grand Prix. Tyler Epp departs the organization to pursue a significant opportunity within the motorsports industry. Garfinkel expressed his excitement for Nowak's leadership, praising her talent and commitment to building upon the event's established success. He also extended gratitude to Epp for his instrumental contributions.

Nowak's Extensive Experience and Future Vision

Nowak joined the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium enterprise in 2019, accumulating diverse experience in corporate partnerships and business operations. Prior to her vice presidency in 2024, she effectively managed the race's business aspects. She voiced her enthusiasm for the new role, acknowledging the foundational work laid by her predecessors and emphasizing a continued focus on delivering an exceptional fan experience and world-class action for all stakeholders.

Strategic Promotions Within South Florida Motorsports

In related news, John Murphy has been elevated to managing director of South Florida Motorsports. In this expanded capacity, Murphy will oversee all motorsport events at the Miami International Autodrome. His involvement with the event dates back to its beginning, having most recently served as vice president of sporting and racing operations, further strengthening the leadership team with seasoned expertise.

Sergio Perez Completes First Cadillac F1 Simulator Laps

Sergio Perez has officially begun his journey with the Cadillac Formula 1 team, completing his inaugural simulator sessions as the squad gears up for its entry into the championship in 2026.

Following a visit to the team's facility in Charlotte, the Mexican driver proceeded to their newly unveiled Silverstone headquarters. Here, under the guidance of team principal Graeme Lowdon and CEO Dan Towriss, Perez immersed himself in the team's simulator, undertaking his first virtual laps. This intensive preparation aligns with his previous remarks at the Los Angeles Dodger Stadium, where he not only threw the ceremonial first pitch but also articulated his commitment to physical and mental readiness for the 2026 season, including plans to test a vintage F1 car. His objective is clear: to ensure the team is in prime condition from the outset, with aspirations of scoring points early in their debut season. The seasoned driver, with a 14-year F1 career spanning multiple teams and boasting six Grand Prix victories, 39 podium finishes, three pole positions, and 12 fastest laps, will join forces with former Sauber and Mercedes reserve driver Valtteri Bottas. IndyCar talent Colton Herta will serve as the team's test driver, completing a robust and experienced lineup for Cadillac's ambitious F1 venture.

Perez's proactive engagement with Cadillac's program underscores the team's dedication to a strong maiden season. His extensive experience, coupled with Bottas's track record and Herta's rising star power, forms a formidable foundation for Cadillac as they embark on their Formula 1 journey. The anticipation is building for their 2026 debut, with the team confident in their ability to make a significant impact on the sport.

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Verstappen Triumphs in GT3 Nordschleife Debut

Max Verstappen, the acclaimed four-time Formula 1 world champion, showcased his versatility in motorsport by claiming a resounding victory in his inaugural GT3 race at the iconic Nordschleife circuit. Competing in the Nürburgring Endurance Series, Verstappen, alongside co-driver Chris Lulham, delivered a masterful performance that left competitors trailing.

Verstappen's Commanding Performance at Nürburgring Endurance Series

On September 27, 2025, at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, Max Verstappen embarked on his first GT3 competitive outing with Emil Frey Racing, piloting a Ferrari 296. From a third-place start, Verstappen swiftly took the lead, building an impressive one-minute advantage within the initial two hours of the race. His consistent and flawless driving set the stage for a dominant performance. Subsequently, co-driver Chris Lulham, a 22-year-old Briton, expertly maintained the lead, bringing the Ferrari across the finish line a commanding 24.5 seconds ahead of the second-placed Ford Mustang GT3, driven by Dennis Fetzer, Jann Mardenborough, and Fabio Scherer.

Following his triumph, Verstappen remarked on the exceptional performance of his car in dry conditions and his personal satisfaction with navigating traffic effectively. He expressed immense pleasure in achieving a victory on his very first attempt at the circuit. Looking ahead, the Dutch driver, who will soon turn 28, shared his ambition to participate in the prestigious Nürburgring 24 Hours event in the future, indicating a desire to gain more experience in endurance GT3 racing.

This remarkable debut signifies Verstappen's exceptional talent extends beyond Formula 1, demonstrating his adaptability and competitive spirit in different racing disciplines. His success in such a challenging environment suggests a bright future in endurance racing should he choose to pursue it further, potentially bringing even more excitement to the sport.

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