Max Verstappen got off to a flying start on Saturday in Austin, taking pole position in sprint qualifying and dominating the mini-race.
The four-time world champion had an easy race, with the exception of a duel with Russell at Turn 12 on lap eight, and was helped by a pile-up at the start that eliminated the McLaren duo.
The race ended under the Safety Car due to an accident between Esteban Ocon's Haas and Lance Stroll's Aston Martin, resulting in a double zero for the two drivers and allowing Verstappen to gain 8 points on championship leader Piastri.
Verstappen reduced the gap to Piastri to 55 points, with the Dutchman stating
"The most important thing is winning the Sprint Race."
Author's summary: Verstappen dominates Austin sprint race.