Formula One bosses have taken the unusual precaution of moving Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix forwards three hours to avoid a forecast thunderstorm washing the race away.

Instead of starting at 4pm local time in Florida, it will begin at 1pm (6pm GMT).

A statement from the FIA, Formula One and Miami Grand Prix confirmed: ‘The decision has been taken to move the start of Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix to 1pm in Miami.

‘This decision has been taken to ensure the least amount of disruption to the race, and to ensure the maximum possible window to complete the Grand Prix in the best conditions and to prioritise the safety of drivers, fans, teams and staff.’

The decision was taken between the governing FIA and Formula One Management, the sportsman owners, after qualifying on Saturday night.

The risk of thunderstorms is particularly relevant in Florida, where state law decrees that major events must be postponed or cancelled if lightning strikes.

Formula One bosses have taken the unusual precaution of moving Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix forwards three hours to avoid a forecast thunderstorm

Mercedes star Kimi Antonelli will start in pole position after an impressive display in qualifying

With that predicted from 3pm, the race has been moved with the teams informed of the decision, which they are happy to comply with.

The schedule change adds a new layer of pressure for teenage sensation Kimi Antonelli, who is set to lead the field away after securing a stunning third successive pole position. 

The 19-year-old Mercedes star has been the story of the weekend, planting himself firmly in the title hunt.

He will have a rejuvenated Max Verstappen for company on the front row, with the Red Bull champion appearing to have finally cured the performance ills that plagued his early-season form. 

Verstappen, who hailed his qualifying pace as ‘astonishing’, will be eager to use the earlier slot to launch an immediate attack on the rookie leader.