Verstappen sets fastest time in U.S. GP sprint qualifying

Max Verstappen secured the first position in the sprint qualifying for the United States Grand Prix of Formula 1, beating George Russell by 0.012 seconds. Despite technical issues related to Red Bull's front wing height adjustment, Verstappen achieved his first pole in a qualifying session since the Austrian GP in June. Meanwhile, Sergio Pérez was unable to advance past SQ2, dropping out of contention.

Mercedes and McLaren in the competition

George Russell led most of the session and seemed to have secured the top spot in SQ3 after improving his personal best time. However, Verstappen managed to surpass him on his final lap. Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc completed the top four, consistently competing for the leading positions. On the other hand, Lewis Hamilton struggled with his Mercedes and couldn’t match his teammate’s times.

Pérez and Piastri face challenges

The day did not favor Pérez or McLaren in general, as both he and Oscar Piastri were eliminated in SQ2 and SQ1, respectively. Pérez couldn't hold his position and was overtaken by Yuki Tsunoda. Piastri, on the other hand, was penalized for exceeding track limits, leaving him in 16th place.

Positive results for Haas and Williams

Haas had a good day with Nico Hulkenberg beating Hamilton to finish sixth, while Kevin Magnussen secured eighth. In Williams, rookie Franco Colapinto surprised by reaching SQ3, although a spin at turn 12 left him in tenth place.

Track limits violations and penalties

The session was marked by several track limits violations. Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll lost their times in SQ2, which left them out. Liam Lawson was also penalized, dropping behind Stroll and Alonso. Meanwhile, Alex Albon suffered an incident at the end of SQ1 that prevented him from advancing.