UNITED STATES: Max Verstappen would be thanking his lucky stars at the Circuit of The Americas after clinching a frantic-fought victory in the US Grand Prix on Sunday.
Despite battling a persistent brake issue in the final stretch, Verstappen managed to hold off a relentless Lewis Hamilton, crossing the chequered flag and securing his 15th win of the season, equalling his record from the previous year.
Starting from sixth on the grid, Verstappen patiently battled his way through the ranks after a lack-lustre qualifying session.
Charles Leclerc, who started on pole, saw Norris make a formidable move at the outset, seizing the lead in the opening hairpin. Carlos Sainz capitalized on the chaos, edging past Lewis Hamilton into third.
Despite facing brake issues in the final stint, Verstappen made a strategic move earlier in the by opting for a two-stop strategy, ensuring he had the edge over his competitors. Norris and Verstappen emerged as the leading contenders, engaging in a nail-biting battle for first place.
In a daring manoeuvre on lap 28, Verstappen executed a masterful pass, seizing the lead from Norris. As the race entered its final stages, Lewis Hamilton, armed with fresher tires, embarked on a determined charge, inching closer to the front-runners.
In a dramatic turn of events, the gap between Verstappen and Hamilton dwindled to a mere two seconds in the final lap.
Verstappen’s brake issues added an extra layer of suspense, making for a heart-pounding finish. With the help of DRS from a backmarker in the form of Zhou Guanyu, Verstappen secured the victory, with Hamilton and Norris rounding out the podium.
The US Grand Prix delivered a thrilling showcase of talent, demonstrating once again the fierce competition and unwavering determination that defines Formula 1 racing.
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