LEWIS HAMILTON and Max Verstappen are among the names eyeing a podium finish at the Miami Grand Prix – and football legend Lionel Messi will be among the big names cheering them on.
The Formula One season was put on hold when the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian events were canned because of the conflict in the Middle East.
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Lionel Messi and his family posed for snaps with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli Credit: Getty
The Inter Miami talisman was given the VIP treatment Credit: Getty
Rafael Nadal was among the star-studded names in attendance Credit: Getty
Former Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng headed down to the paddock Credit: Getty
And thunderstorms have been threatening to cancel the Miami showdown – leading to officials bringing the race forward by three hours.
But worries over the Grand Prix even going ahead have not kept some icons away.
Lionel Messi, who will be looking to make it back-to-back World Cup crowns this summer, was spotted arriving early for the big race.
The Argentine, 38, was spotted holding hands with his glamorous wife Antonela less than 24 hours after an MLS defeat to fierce Florida rivals Orlando City.
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Messi then visited the Mercedes garage, where he and his family posed for snaps with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.
Tennis icon Rafael Nadal was also among the A-listers to get the VIP treatment.
The 22-time Grand Slam winner, 39, headed down to the paddock as final preparations were made for the event.
American rapper DJ Khaled, who helped to unveil Racing Bulls’ new livery earlier this week, was another famous face to make an appearance.
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Jon Rahm was in Miami for the race Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
He was joined by fellow LIV Golf star Ian Poulter Credit: Getty
DJ Khaled has been working with Racing Bulls this week Credit: Getty
Russell gave Messi a guided tour Credit: Getty
Former Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng was seen taking a look after jetting into Florida as well.
There is uncertainty over the future of LIV Golf after it was confirmed that funding is being pulled by the Public Investment Fund.
But two of the competition’s biggest stars cleared their plans to take in the F1 atmosphere.
Jon Rahm and Ian Poulter braved the weather warnings to see who would come out on top.
Antonelli is going into the Miami Grand Prix in pole position after acing qualifying.
