Efforts to scupper Formula 1’s planned Miami Grand Prix have been hit after the County Mayor vetoed Commission resolutions.
Last month it was announced a deal in principle had been agreed with the owner of the Miami Dolphins, Stephen Ross, to host a race on the grounds surrounding their Hard Rock Stadium from 2021.
Much like the initially planned location downtown in the Floridian city, local residents immediately voiced disapproval and the Miami Dade Commission put roadblocks in place by approving resolutions that could prevent the necessary road closures to host the GP.
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In response, however, County Mayor Carlos Gimenez used his veto powers against the resolution, arguing it would promote discussions between F1 and locals to reach a compromise.
“I remain committed to respecting the residents of Miami Gardens, and I remain committed to finding a way to bring this world-class event to our community,” he said.
Unsurprisingly, the residents were less than thrilled by the County Mayor’s decision with the City Mayor Oliver Gilbert leading the criticism.
“We understand we’re part of a great economic ecosystem, we get that,” he said. “We just want that economic ecosystem to understand that we still live here. Every great event isn’t a great event for us.”
And one local, Janice Smith, really epitomised the miserable argument put forward.
“You can’t hear in your house with the Dolphins games already. I feel like we’re being disrespected, insulted, and disregarded,” she said.