Gallery: F1 Miami GP captured by photo phenom Jamey Price

By most accounts, the inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Miami International Autodrome—a temporary race 3.4-mile, 19-turn race track surrounding Hard Rock Stadium—was a snoozer. Max Verstappen wrestled the lead away from Ferrari-driving rival Charles Leclerc on lap nine, and never looked back. Rippling pavement and a cramped course configuration (mostly from one troublesome chicane) didn’t quite produce the show that fans and promoters had anticipated.

Fear not, Miami has plenty of time to get things right. 10 years, to be exact, as this year’s inaugural race was part of a decade-long agreement for F1 to race annually in the Magic City.

At any other city circuit, the first-year bugs would typically dominate the headlines. Not in Miami. To welcome its first grand prix, South Beach threw a celebration like none other. Regardless of the Sunday results, grand prix organizers made sure that the only thing people would remember was the party. Pre-race gatherings featured DJs and artists normally reserved for the Super Bowl, and the paddock was infested with glitterati and other celebrity A-listers. Organizers moored yachts in the now-famous fake marina, Puerto Rican singer Luis Fonsi belted the national anthem, and retired Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino presented helmets to podium drivers—Miami stamped its name in giant neon letters across racing’s largest stage.

To capture the ambiance, festivities, and racing, we asked one of the nation’s premier motorsport photographers, Jamey Price, to depict the historical weekend through his lens. “Miami was unique,” says Price. “I’ve never been to an F1 race that felt like a party as much as it did a race. The atmosphere. The color. The vibe from the teams and drivers, the energy in the paddock was so fun.”

“As a photographer, any new track, especially a hybrid “street” circuit is tough. Getting around is always the biggest challenge. The lack of photo holes in places where you want to take pictures was frustrating, but every photographer is dealing with the same issues, so you just push on.”

“The biggest challenge was the heat and humidity. South Florida in May is always going to be hot, but 92 degrees was tough, especially with all the walking I did.” Price walked approximately 36 miles, from Thursday morning to Sunday night. “It was brutal, but the track was colorful, fast, and fun to shoot in certain places. Overall, I enjoyed it and can’t wait for next year’s race!”

Price is one of the few photographers who can produce drama, color, and speed through his shots, regardless of the venue. Dropping him into the one of the largest parties this year yielded stellar results. Scroll through the gallery and let us know your favorites in the comments below.