Miami Grand Prix Welcomes New Leadership: Katharina Nowak Takes the Helm

The Miami Grand Prix has recently announced the appointment of Katharina Nowak as its new president, marking a significant moment in the event’s history as she becomes the youngest individual to hold this prestigious position. This change in leadership was confirmed by Tom Garfinkel, who serves as the managing partner of the Grand Prix. Nowak’s ascension to the presidency follows the successful tenure of Tyler Epp, who significantly contributed to the growth and popularity of the Miami Grand Prix since its inception on the Formula 1 calendar in 2022.

A Record-Breaking Event

The Miami Grand Prix has quickly established itself as a key fixture in the Formula 1 calendar, drawing massive crowds and television audiences. In its inaugural year, the event achieved a remarkable milestone with a sell-out attendance of 242,955 fans over the three-day race weekend. This impressive turnout made it the most attended event ever hosted at Hard Rock Stadium, the venue for the Grand Prix.

The success continued in 2023 when the Miami Grand Prix recorded the largest television audience in U.S. history for a Formula 1 race, boasting an impressive 3.1 million viewers tuning in on ABC. The event’s popularity showed no signs of slowing down in 2025, as attendance soared to an even greater figure of 275,000. Additionally, in May of the same year, the Miami Grand Prix solidified its future by extending its contract with Formula 1, ensuring that the event will be part of the racing calendar until 2041.

Leadership Transition

In her new role, Katharina Nowak succeeds Tyler Epp, who has decided to pursue an important opportunity within the motorsports industry. Epp’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Miami Grand Prix into the thriving event it is today. Tom Garfinkel expressed his confidence in Nowak’s abilities, stating, "I am excited to announce Katharina as our President. She is one of the most talented young executives I’ve been around, and I know she will continue to build on what has been established here – that we are committed to innovating fan experience and delivering a world-class event for drivers, teams, and fans."

Nowak’s journey with the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium enterprise began in 2019. Over the years, she has taken on multiple roles within the organization, including corporate partnerships and business operations. Before her promotion to president, she served as the vice president of business operations for the Grand Prix, overseeing crucial aspects of the event’s operations.

A Vision for the Future

Upon her appointment, Katharina Nowak expressed her enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Miami Grand Prix. "I am both humbled and excited to take on this new role as President," she stated. "I want to thank Steve Ross, Tom, and Tyler for their vision, investment, and leadership. In this new chapter, our goals remain unchanged – we will continue to deliver an exceptional event for our stakeholders, with elite on-track action and a fan-first experience at the center of all we do."

Nowak highlighted the strength of the team behind the Miami Grand Prix, emphasizing their commitment to excellence. She is dedicated to continuing the work that has already been initiated to enhance the event’s overall experience for fans, drivers, and teams alike.

Expanding Management

In conjunction with Nowak’s appointment, John Murphy has been promoted to the role of managing director of South Florida Motorsports. Murphy will take on broader responsibilities for managing all motorsport events at the Miami International Autodrome. Having been involved with the Miami Grand Prix since its inception, Murphy has played a vital role in the event’s success, most recently serving as vice president of sporting and racing operations.

This leadership transition brings a fresh perspective to the Miami Grand Prix, with both Nowak and Murphy poised to drive the event to new heights. Their combined experience and dedication to the motorsports community position them well to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The Importance of Fan Engagement

One of the core focuses of the Miami Grand Prix under the new leadership will be enhancing the fan experience. In recent years, Formula 1 has made significant strides in improving its engagement with fans. Nowak has expressed a strong commitment to ensuring that the Miami Grand Prix remains at the forefront of this trend.

By prioritizing fan-first initiatives, the event aims to create an unforgettable experience for attendees. This includes everything from interactive activities at the venue to enhanced viewing options and hospitality services. The goal is to make the Miami Grand Prix not just a race but a comprehensive entertainment experience that captivates fans of all ages.

Commitment to Innovation

Innovation will be another cornerstone of Nowak’s presidency. The Miami Grand Prix has already established itself as a leader in adopting new technologies and practices within the motorsports industry. This trend is expected to continue as Nowak and her team explore new ways to enhance the event’s operations and overall appeal.

From leveraging data analytics to improve race strategies to incorporating sustainable practices that minimize the environmental impact of the event, the Miami Grand Prix is committed to staying ahead of the curve. This dedication to innovation will not only benefit the event but also contribute to the broader goals of Formula 1 in promoting sustainability and responsible racing.

The Role of Community

The Miami Grand Prix has also recognized the importance of community involvement in its success. Engaging with local businesses, schools, and organizations has been a vital aspect of the event’s growth. Under Nowak’s leadership, the Grand Prix is expected to deepen its commitment to the South Florida community.

By fostering partnerships with local stakeholders, the Miami Grand Prix can create a positive impact that extends beyond the racetrack. Initiatives such as educational programs, outreach efforts, and local sponsorship opportunities will help ensure that the event remains a source of pride for the Miami community.

Looking Ahead

As the Miami Grand Prix enters a new era with Katharina Nowak at the helm, excitement is building for what lies ahead. The event’s remarkable growth in attendance and viewership serves as a testament to its popularity, and the new leadership is committed to maintaining this momentum.

With a focus on delivering exceptional experiences for fans, drivers, and teams, the Miami Grand Prix is set to solidify its status as one of the premier racing events in the world. The combination of innovative practices, community engagement, and a commitment to excellence will ensure that the Miami Grand Prix continues to thrive in the years to come.

The Miami Grand Prix is more than just a race; it is a celebration of motorsports that captures the spirit of the vibrant city of Miami. As the event evolves under the guidance of its new leaders, it promises to remain a highlight on the Formula 1 calendar, providing unforgettable moments for fans and participants alike.