Driveable LEGO big builds welcomed to Miami drivers’ parade

There was a fresh take on the Formula 1 drivers’ parade ahead of the Miami Grand Prix on Sunday, with all 20 F1 drivers having the chance to get behind the wheel of fully drivable LEGO big build cars, rather than touring on the usual truck.

Each team had a bespoke car in their own colours and liveries, in which the drivers lapped the 5.4km track while waving to fans ahead of the race.

The incredible vehicles are based on the LEGO F1 Speed Champions range unveiled late last year and were designed to celebrate Formula 1 and the LEGO Group’s ongoing, multi-year partnership.

The cars were created by a skilled team of 26 designers, engineers and LEGO builders, over 22,000 hours, in the LEGO Group’s Kladno factory, located in the Czech Republic. This special event in Miami was the first of many memorable moments for families at races this year.

At a near 1:1 in scale with Formula 1 cars, each big build is made of nearly 400,000 LEGO bricks, weighing 1,000kg and is capable of reaching speeds of 20kph – all while capturing the intricate and unique details of an F1 car, including everything from sponsor logos to authentic Pirelli tyres.

Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer at Formula 1, said: “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. 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.”

MUST-SEE: All the liveries, special helmet designs and snazzy looks for Miami

Julia Goldin, Chief Product & Marketing Officer of the LEGO Group, added: «At the LEGO Group, we are constantly striving to push the boundaries of what is possible. This latest challenge is a true testament to that, marking an extraordinary collaboration between the LEGO Group, Formula 1 and its 10 teams.

«We know that drivable big builds have an unparalleled ability to evoke excitement amongst fans and are delighted to see the reaction unveiling 10 at the same time has brought. We hope these unique creations reinforce that with imagination and a LEGO brick in-hand; creativity has limitless possibilities.”

Following the conclusion of the Miami event, all 10 LEGO big builds are now embarking on a global tour with appearances at future races. For more information, fans can visit LEGO.com/F1.