Fred Vesti reveals huge Mercedes F1 simulator push before Miami GP

Mercedes Formula 1 third driver Fred Vesti has revealed that he completed approximately 1000 laps on the simulator in the impromptu April break ahead of the Miami Grand Prix. 

The five-week break between the Japanese and Miami Grands Prix offered teams an unexpected opportunity to get back to the factory and almost reset before the season resumed. 

"Honestly, I was amazed at how cool the event was," Vesti said of the race at the Hard Rock Stadium on the Mercedes Nu Silver Arrows Radio Show. "I was there a few years ago, and just how much it's grown in those two years has blown my mind, really. So many fans.

"The show that's being put on is quite cool. And then the race itself was a great Formula 1 race. Probably the best one so far this year in terms of close racing. And the strategy was really cool, as well."

When asked how many laps he had done on the simulator, he added: "Closer to a thousand, I think, before Miami. And also, after. I flew straight back here to Brackley, straight back into the sim."

While the majority of teams brought upgrades to the Miami Grand Prix, Mercedes is planning its upgrades for the Canadian Grand Prix at the end of May.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

Photo by: Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

The Brackley outfit has enjoyed a dominant start to the 2026 season, winning every grand prix so far. George Russell won the season-opening Australian Grand Prix and the Chinese sprint race, and his team-mate Kimi Antonelli has claimed three consecutive victories at the Chinese, Japanese and Miami Grands Prix. 

The 19-year-old became the youngest driver to lead the championship and has now extended his lead over Russell to 20 points after his win in Miami. 

The Canadian Grand Prix will take place at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on 22-24 May.