Chaos reigned supreme at the United States Grand Prix Sprint race! Max Verstappen capitalised on a dramatic first-corner collision between McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to secure a dominant victory. The incident, which saw both Norris and Piastri retire immediately, unfolded as Piastri challenged Norris for second place on the uphill run to Turn 1.
Replays showed Piastri making contact with Nico Hulkenberg's Sauber, sending him careening into Norris. The resulting damage forced both McLarens out of the Sprint, triggering a Safety Car period and leaving McLaren CEO Zak Brown fuming, calling it "Amateur hour."
"That was terrible, neither of our drivers to blame," Brown stated after the incident. "Nico drove into Oscar."
Verstappen, starting from pole position, comfortably led the race from start to finish. Behind him, George Russell climbed to second, while Carlos Sainz took third. The incident significantly impacted McLaren's weekend, turning promising grid positions into zero points.
Later in qualifying for the main Grand Prix, Verstappen continued his dominance, securing pole position with a blistering lap. Norris will join him on the front row, while Piastri, still reeling from the Sprint incident, qualified a disappointing sixth.
Looking Ahead
The main race promises further excitement, with Verstappen looking strong to convert his pole position into a victory. However, Norris will be eager to challenge, and Piastri will be looking to bounce back from his Sprint disappointment. Expect fireworks as the drivers battle it out at the Circuit of the Americas!
Sprint Race Results (Top 3)
- 1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
- 2. George Russell (Mercedes)
- 3. Carlos Sainz (Ferrari)
Qualifying Results (Top 3)
- 1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
- 2. Lando Norris (McLaren)
- 3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)