P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lewis Hamilton believes the “undeniable” pace Max Verstappen had in the United States Grand Prix Sprint proves he will be
Hamilton started third but took advantage of Verstappen squeezing Leclerc to overtake the Ferrari. Initially, Hamilton managed to stay within one second of Verstappen to activate DRS, but the Dutchman quickly pulled away and won with a 9.4s lead. Hamilton admitted that Verstappen’s pace is undeniable and that he still has a long way to go to match it. Verstappen led every lap and won the Sprint race, but his qualifying time was deleted for exceeding track limits, meaning he will start sixth. Both drivers anticipate a good battle with Leclerc and Norris, and Hamilton hopes to keep Verstappen behind if possible. Verstappen felt in control once he broke out of DRS range and believes the pace of his car was excellent.
Source: Motorsport Week
