United States Grand Prix 2021 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Max Verstappen delivered a commanding victory at the United States Grand Prix in Austin, extending his championship lead to 12 points with just five races remaining. The Dutchman's controlled performance at the Circuit of the Americas demonstrated Red Bull's resurgent form as the title fight entered its crucial final phase.

Starting from pole position, Verstappen seized the lead at Turn 1 despite a bold challenge from Lewis Hamilton on the outside. The two championship rivals engaged in fierce wheel-to-wheel combat through the opening sector, with Verstappen holding firm to maintain position. Once ahead, he controlled the race with masterful tire management and pace control. Hamilton applied constant pressure throughout, finishing second just 1.3 seconds behind, but couldn't find a way past Red Bull's strong race pace and defensive strategy.

Sergio Perez completed the podium in third for Red Bull after holding off Ferrari's Charles Leclerc in the closing stages, securing a valuable one-three finish for the team. Hamilton claimed fastest lap but the championship momentum had swung firmly toward Verstappen. The victory marked a crucial statement from Red Bull heading into Mexico, another high-altitude circuit expected to favor their package. With Mercedes appearing to lose their earlier pace advantage and the title fight entering the decisive final rounds, Verstappen's clinical performance put him in the driver's seat for his maiden World Championship.