
Norris managed to reduce a six-second gap and came within DRS range of Verstappen by lap 45, as their title fight intensified at Austin. Norris applied pressure on Verstappen throughout the race, but much to his frustration, Verstappen was always a step ahead, defending his position with precision. Norris struggled to get within half a second on the back straight to make a proper attempt around Turn 12.
The pivotal moment came on lap 52 when Norris attempted a risky overtake on the outside line. He went deep into the gravel, and both drivers ran wide, with Norris overtaking Verstappen off the racing line to briefly take the lead. However, knowing that a five-second penalty might follow for going off-track, Norris pressed on and tried to extend his lead. Despite his efforts, he could only create a 4.1-second gap.
As expected, the stewards penalized Norris with a five-second time penalty, which allowed Verstappen to reclaim a podium spot by just 0.9 seconds. Piastri finished 1.5 seconds behind Norris, securing fifth place in an impressive debut for the young Australian, while Russell started from the pitlane and surged through the field to finish sixth after passing Perez in the final laps.
Nico Hulkenberg finished eighth, scoring crucial points for Haas in the constructors’ championship battle. Liam Lawson, back in F1, finished ninth after a smart strategy choice of starting on hard tires. Franco Colapinto delivered an impressive performance, securing the final point, while Kevin Magnussen, who had been running smoothly, was forced into two pit stops, which compromised his race.