Drivers in the Formula 1 paddock rode customized, drivable LEGO cars during the traditional pre-race parade at the Miami Grand Prix. The event marked a new aspect of the partnership between Formula 1 and The LEGO Group.
Each of the 20 F1 drivers had a bespoke car reflecting their team colors and livery. Drivers navigated the 5.4km track waving to spectators before the main race.
The vehicles drew inspiration from the LEGO F1 Speed Champions line. They were developed as part of an ongoing, multi-year partnership between Formula 1 and the toy brick company.
Building the cars involved a team of 26 designers, engineers, and builders. The construction took over 22,000 hours at the LEGO Group's Kladno factory in the Czech Republic.
Reaching speeds up to 20 kph, the builds are close to a 1:1 scale with actual Formula 1 cars. Each uses nearly 400,000 LEGO bricks and weighs 1,000kg. The models include details like sponsor logos and authentic Pirelli tires. Among the participants were drivers from across the grid, including veteran Fernando Alonso.
Beyond the parade, LEGO displayed a full-sized replica of the Ferrari SF-24 race car at the event. This model, made entirely of LEGO bricks, included logos and wheels also constructed from bricks, though the Miami display featured real tires.
Built by Brickvision, the Ferrari replica required over half a million bricks and 1200 hours of work. The collaboration aims to introduce new audiences to Formula 1 through engaging experiences.
Following the Miami race, the 10 drivable LEGO builds are scheduled for a global tour. They will appear at future races on the F1 schedule, allowing fans worldwide to see the unique creations.
Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer at Formula 1, commented on the initiative. "As a sport synonymous with innovation and pushing boundaries, it was amazing to see another first for our sport as the big builds made their way around the track in the hands of the best drivers in the world," Prazer said. "Our partnership with the LEGO Group enables us to inject a lot of fun into the Grand Prix experience and engage new audiences, and we can’t wait to see what else we can dream up together.”
