The starting grid for the sprint race in Austin promises excitement. Max Verstappen will start from pole position for the sprint spectacle of the United States Grand Prix at 17:00 UTC. The Dutchman was narrowly faster than both McLarens in the thrilling sprint qualifying and therefore expects an intense battle.
Lando Norris will start in second place and Oscar Piastri, the championship leader, will take the third spot. McLaren is seeking revenge and wants to keep Verstappen from the sprint victory, but the Red Bull driver seems eager to catch up with the British team. “It’s going to be a tough fight, but that’s what everyone wants to see,” he said afterwards with a smile.
The surprise of the day came from Nico Hülkenberg, who impressively qualified his Sauber in fourth place. His young teammate Gabriel Bortoleto, on the other hand, will start last. Ferrari had another difficult session: Lewis Hamilton (8th) and Charles Leclerc (10th) couldn’t make a stand. Leclerc, last year’s winner in Austin, simply lacked speed this time.
The biggest disappointment came from Yuki Tsunoda. While teammate Verstappen grabbed the pole, he could only manage the eighteenth time after a mistake by his team with the timing. One thing is certain: there will be fireworks tonight.
