A broadcast moment during the Miami Grand Prix quickly gained traction online after Ivana Knoll appeared in the paddock during live coverage, drawing attention away from a post–Sprint Qualifying segment and circulating widely across social media.
According to Fox News, the incident occurred during a Sky Sports analysis featuring Jenson Button, Naomi Schiff, and presenter Simon Lazenby. While the panel was breaking down the qualifying results, the camera feed briefly shifted as Knoll moved through the paddock behind them. The moment was short, but clips were quickly isolated and shared, with viewers identifying her almost immediately.
Knoll, 33, first gained international recognition during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where she became widely known as the “World Cup’s sexiest fan.” A former Miss Croatia, she has since built a global following and transitioned into a career spanning modeling, influencing, and music.
Performing under the name KnollDoll, she has also appeared at major events, including Formula 1 race weekends, where she has become a recurring presence since the Miami race was introduced in 2022.
It is unclear whether she will be DJing at any official Grand Prix event.
Her appearance in the paddock reflects a broader shift in Formula 1’s visibility and audience reach. Once considered a closed technical environment, the paddock has increasingly become a crossover space where athletes, media personalities, and influencers intersect.
The viral moment came during a race weekend already shaped by logistical changes. Officials confirmed that the race set for Sunday, May 3, would begin three hours earlier than scheduled due to expected severe weather. In a joint statement, FIA and Formula 1 said the adjustment was made “to ensure the least amount of disruption to the race” and to “prioritize the safety of drivers, fans, teams and staff.”
On track, Kimi Antonelli is set to start on pole position, with Max Verstappen alongside him on the front row.
