P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 star handed PENALTY ahead of US Grand Prix after clumsy crash
A major penalty was handed to an F1 star at COTA this weekend following a clumsy crash ahead of the United States Grand Prix on Sunday. The 19th round of the championship presented a significant opportunity for the three title contenders to earn valuable points during the fourth sprint weekend of the 2025 campaign. Reigning champion Max Verstappen secured his third consecutive sprint pole position in Austin, with Lando Norris alongside him on the front row for the sprint race. However, chaos ensued as championship leader Oscar Piastri made contact with Nico Hulkenberg, leading to a collision with Norris, ultimately eliminating both McLarens from the race. Verstappen claimed his 13th sprint victory amid further drama involving a reckless move by Lance Stroll, resulting in both drivers being ruled out of the race. Stroll was later penalized by the FIA with a five-place grid penalty and two penalty points for causing the collision with Esteban Ocon during the sprint event.
