Stephen Ross, the Miami Dolphins owner, has been riding the wave of Formula One's explosive popularity. Since 2022, the Dolphins' home turf, Hard Rock Stadium, has doubled as the venue for the Miami Grand Prix. This high-octane event at the Miami International Autodrome isn't just about the racing; it's a star-studded affair, drawing celebrities from all corners.
In a candid chat with CNBC's Andrew Sorkin, Ross didn't hold back when asked about the financial impact of F1 compared to his NFL team. "F1 has been great," he said, highlighting that the three-day F1 event pulls in more fans than the Dolphins' entire season ticket sales. That's a testament to the global allure of Formula One.
Turning to the gridiron, the Dolphins face a challenging season ahead. With a hefty $175 million in dead money and a coaching staff still proving their mettle, the team is in a tough spot. The roster is in need of a serious talent infusion, and unless the 2026 draft delivers a miracle, the outlook isn't rosy.
In a move to shake things up, the Dolphins traded star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and their fourth-round pick to the Denver Broncos. In return, they snagged Denver’s first-round pick (30th), third-round pick (94th), and fourth-round pick (130th). This trade is a clear signal of their commitment to rebuilding.
There's a glimmer of hope in quarterback Malik Willis, who could potentially turn the tide and make the Dolphins a team to watch. But as it stands, the odds are stacked against them. The Dolphins are in a rebuilding phase, and while the future holds possibilities, the present demands patience.