Max Verstappen, the three-time world champion from Red Bull, delivers a psychological blow to his closest rival, Lando Norris, during the first free practice for the United States Grand Prix on Friday. Verstappen leads the time sheet for most of the session at the Austin circuit, ultimately edging out the British McLaren driver.
After sixty minutes, Verstappen’s time of 1:33.855 – for what it’s worth in FP1 – is the third fastest. Only Ferrari drivers Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc are quicker in the final stages (1:33.602 and 1:33.623 respectively). Norris, running his own program, manages to secure the fourth fastest time (1:33.868) at the last moment.
Verstappen’s Lead in the Championship
With six races and three sprint races remaining, Verstappen’s lead over Norris in the world championship stands at 52 points. The American GP, taking place on Sunday at 20:00 UTC, plays a crucial role in the progression of the championship. After a short break, Verstappen has made a promising start to the race weekend.
Verstappen’s Unfazed Performance Amid Controversy
Despite the recent controversy surrounding the illegal system of the RB20, which allows the car’s ride height to be adjusted between qualifying and the race, Verstappen remains as unflappable as ever in Texas. At the Circuit of the Americas, where he has triumphed for the past three years, the Dutchman is equipped with a substantial upgrade package designed to partially rectify persistent balance issues. The initial signs appear fairly promising. Midway through, Verstappen begins his qualifying simulation on soft tires.
Experiencing the Modified Circuit
On the circuit with its endless run-off areas and perpetual debates about track limits, the primary concern for the drivers in the first practice session (VT1) is to experience the implemented modifications to the track itself. The asphalt has been completely renewed, the verges of several corners (6, 13, 14, and 15) have been narrowed and replaced with grass strips, and the exit of turn 11 has also been revamped (with faux gravel traps).
Hamilton’s Spectacular Off-Track Excursion
In their quest for the limit and the right balance, a large number of drivers venture off the track. About twenty minutes in, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton spins spectacularly over and off the dirty asphalt. However, there are no serious consequences.
Liam Lawson’s Official Return in Austin
The first practice session in Austin also marks the official return of Liam Lawson at the highest level. The New Zealander replaces Daniel Ricciardo at Visa RB, who was thanked for his services after the previous GP in Singapore. Lawson finishes the hour-long training session with the thirteenth time.
Upcoming Sprint Qualification
Later tonight, at 21:30 UTC, the sprint qualification (Sprint Shootout) is scheduled.
