The F1 United States GP Sprint race delivered early McLaren-drama and an unexpected finish. Verstappen claimed victory in Austin after a chaotic start that saw multiple collisions and two Safety Car phases. Russell finished second, with Sainz completing the podium. Short sprint report.
Follow PaddockLines on social media: Facebook and Instagram
Start
Verstappen turned first in the first corner, meanwhile Hulkenberg hit Piastri in this way the Aussie’s McLarens knocked out Norris. The Safety Car deployed, behind it Verstappen, Russell and Sainz completed the TOP3.
The Ferraris jumped to 4-5th positions, in order of Leclerc and Hamilton.
Lap 6
The race restarted, Verstappen got up the speed.
Lap 7-12
Russell started to fight with Verstappen. However the Briton made a mistake at the end of the long straight, and calmed down to get the position. By lap 12, Russell’s gap was around 2.5 seconds behind Verstappen.
Lap 15
For the last point place – the 8th – Bearman and Antonelli were fighting, the Haas driver left the track to save his position. As the incident was under investigation, Bearman got a 10-seconds time penalty, which meant to lose his position.
Lap 16
Another SC phase, Stroll hit Ocon out of the race in turn 1.
Lap 19
The race finished behind the SC, Verstappen won ahead of Russell and Sainz.
Coming up the qualifying for the Grand Prix.
The full results of the Sprint race according to FIA.com:
