Daijiworld Media Network - Austin

Austin, Oct 20: Max Verstappen delivered a clinical performance at the 2025 United States Grand Prix, leading from pole to chequered flag at the Circuit of the Americas and reigniting his championship challenge with just five races remaining in the season.

The Red Bull driver was untouchable in Austin, having already claimed victory in the sprint race and secured pole on Saturday. On Sunday, he fended off early pressure into Turn 1 from Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc, then pulled away with a measured drive that showcased Red Bull’s improved consistency across all circuit types.

While Verstappen surged ahead, McLaren’s title hopes took another hit. Norris managed to recover from an early setback to finish second, passing Leclerc in the closing laps. Oscar Piastri, the championship leader heading into the weekend, could only manage fifth, continuing a three-race run of underwhelming form.

As a result, the title fight has tightened considerably:
• Piastri now leads the standings by just 14 points over Norris.
• Verstappen has closed to within 40 points of the lead, gaining ground on both McLaren drivers over the last four rounds.

Sunday’s race highlighted the momentum shift. While Red Bull had appeared inconsistent earlier in the season, their car now seems competitive across a variety of tracks — with Verstappen once again in dominant form.

Race Recap:

• Turn 1 Drama: Verstappen defended his lead at the start, keeping Norris and Leclerc at bay.
• Midfield Strategy Battles: Leclerc, starting on soft tyres, briefly held second before tyre degradation set in.
• Norris Strikes Late: The McLaren driver passed Leclerc with five laps to go at Turn 12, securing P2 but never posing a threat to Verstappen.
• Piastri Under Pressure: Struggling for pace, he finished fifth, just ahead of George Russell’s Mercedes.
• Hamilton Fades: After showing early promise, Lewis Hamilton dropped to fourth as tyre wear took its toll.

Top 10 Finishers:
1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
2. Lando Norris (McLaren)
3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
4. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
5. Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
6. George Russell (Mercedes)
7. Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull)
8. Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber)
9. Ollie Bearman (Haas)
10. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)

The outcome leaves McLaren with growing concerns as their internal rivalry intensifies and Red Bull re-emerges as a title force. With momentum shifting and just a handful of races left, the 2025 Formula 1 season is now poised for a dramatic and unpredictable finish.