F1 Today | Verstappen crushes rivals in US GP as title fight flares up

Max Verstappen left no doubt about who’s in charge at the Circuit of the Americas, storming to victory in a race he controlled from the very first lap. The Dutchman’s dominant display earned him 25 crucial points and reignited his title push, while Oscar Piastri endured a subdued weekend, finishing only fifth after losing ground in Saturday’s Sprint.

Lando Norris once again showcased MCL-39 perks with a confident run to second, edging out Charles Leclerc after an intense strategic duel that lasted nearly the entire race.

Lewis Hamilton narrowly missed out on the podium but delivered another encouraging performance, while Leclerc's third place brought them back within striking distance of their rivals in the Constructors’ standings.

On a track where, at least on paper, McLaren should have comfortably outpaced their rivals — with the COTA layout perfectly suiting the MCL39 — the team managed to reach the podium only with Lando Norris, and not even on the top step, while a quiet Oscar Piastri had to settle for fifth.

That opened the door for Max Verstappen to make significant gains in the championship. With his victory in Austin, the Dutchman has slashed his deficit to the Australian to just 40 points, after entering the weekend 63 behind.

Asked whether Verstappen now poses a serious threat in the title fight, Andrea Stella’s answer was clear.