by Ben Kilminster
AFTER four weeks out, Formula 1 returns to Austin, Texas, for the United States Grand Prix from the 18th-20thOctober.
This weekend also has the fourth of six sprint races this season, with Brazil and Qatar giving us the final two.
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen will be looking to further his lead in the driver standings, whereas McLaren will be looking to extend their lead in the constructor standings.
Verstappen currently leads the drivers’ championship by 52 points, but without a win in the last eight races, it has allowed McLaren driver Lando Norris to catch up.
Norris and Papaya teammate Oscar Piastri have been firing on all cylinders this season, helping McLaren head above Red Bull in the constructors.
Out of the two McLaren teammates, Norris is the one who needs to win the most if he has any chance of winning the driver’s championship.
It will be tough for the Brit, but if McLaren can get their strategy right then with more points up for grabs this weekend due to the fourth instalment of the sprint race, this is a perfect opportunity for him to gain on Verstappen and help McLaren further their lead.
Start Times
Friday, 18th October
First Practice: 18:30-19:30
Sprint Qualifying: 22:30-23:14
Saturday, 19th October
Sprint: 19:00-20:00
Qualifying: 23:00-00:00
Sunday, 20th October
Race: 20:00
