F1 returns to Austin Texas with Norris eyeing victory

After what seemed like an eternity, Formula One is back this weekend following a four-week break. The highly anticipated return will take place at the beloved Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, home of the original US Grand Prix.

Austin kicks off a triple-header of races, followed by the Mexico and Brazilian Grands Prix. All eyes are on Lando Norris, who dominated in Singapore, as he looks to close the gap to three-time world champion Max Verstappen. Norris is just 52 points behind the reigning champ, inching closer to his first Drivers’ World Championship.

McLaren has been unstoppable this season, currently leading the Constructors’ Championship with a 41-point advantage over Red Bull. Both Norris and his teammate Oscar Piastri have been consistently securing wins and podium finishes.

This weekend also marks the first race since fan favorite Daniel Ricciardo was replaced at Red Bull. After filling in for Nyck De Vries mid-way through last season, Ricciardo’s performances have led to him being replaced by New Zealander Liam Lawson, who also stood in for the injured Ricciardo last year. Lawson, though yet to race at Circuit of the Americas in person, has clocked countless hours in the simulator as Red Bull’s reserve driver.

The US Grand Prix promises the usual Americana spectacle, with the iconic giant Texan flag, drivers sporting cowboy hats, and pre-race festivities that fans adore.

One major difference this weekend is the addition of the Sprint Race format, replacing Free Practice 2 and 3 with Sprint Qualifying and the Sprint Race itself. A maximum of 34 points is up for grabs for whoever wins both the Sprint and Grand Prix, along with an additional point for the fastest lap.

Several teams are bringing major upgrades to Austin. Red Bull, McLaren, and Mercedes have all introduced significant changes, while Ferrari has opted out of upgrades this weekend. Toward the back of the grid, Aston Martin, Alpine, and Haas are focusing on improving their car’s floors, while Sauber has upgraded its front wing in a bid to improve downforce and aerodynamics.

The FIA is also addressing a controversy involving Red Bull’s ride-height adjustment system. Despite concerns that such modifications are against Parc Fermé rules, Red Bull has argued that the system is inaccessible once the car is set up. The FIA has stated that they have “agreed on a plan going forward.”

We’re in for an exciting and much-anticipated race weekend.#The 2024 United States Grand Prix will take place at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, with the main race scheduled for Sunday, October 20, at 3:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. PT).

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