Leclerc takes the win at the 2024 United States Grand Prix, with Ferrari scoring a 1-2 finish!
The USGP delivered an explosive show at the Circuit of the Americas. From Ferrari’s domination, a controversial penalty handed to Norris, to Russell’s comeback from the pits, there’s plenty to talk about.
Read more:
- USGP 2024: what the sprint race and qualifying tell us
- US Grand Prix: why Red Bull is facing controversy
Who won the 2024 United States Grand Prix?
Ferrari secured a really strong 1-2 finish, their first on American soil since 2006, with Leclerc taking the win and Sainz right behind him. This victory marks the team’s third 1-2 of the year, a remarkable feat in this ultra-competitive season. Leclerc, starting from fourth, took the lead in the first corner after a (non)incident between Norris and Verstappen and never gave it up. With impeccable race pace, Ferrari showed they could stand up to Red Bull and McLaren, and even start aiming for the constructors’ title. Ferrari impressed not only with their speed but also with their strategy. Sainz shone, providing perfect support to his Monegasque teammate. This result closes the gap with Red Bull to just 8 points in the championship fight, giving Ferrari hope of winning the constructors’ crown as they sit only 48 points behind the leaders.
IT'S CHARLES!!!
LECLERC WINS IN AUSTIN!!! 🤩#F1 #USGP pic.twitter.com/JGEtAj876k
— Formula 1 (@F1) October 20, 2024
Norris vs. Verstappen: a penalty that sparked debate
The battle between Lando Norris and Max Verstappen grabbed everyone’s attention during the final 10 laps. The Brit, determined to overtake his rival in the F1 World Championship, made several attempts before finally succeeding on lap 52… but went off track in the process. A five-second penalty was immediately handed to Norris, pushing him down to fourth behind Verstappen. I mentioned this in another article, but this decision sparked controversy. Many feels Norris didn’t gain an unfair advantage and that the penalty was harsh. McLaren chose not to give the position back, a risky bet that unfortunately didn’t pay off. This penalty cost Norris a podium, giving Red Bull’s driver an even bigger lead in the drivers’ standings.
Why was Norris penalized and not Verstappen? What the regulations really say
Mercedes almost saves the day
Things looked bleak for George Russell after his Q3 crash and a start from the pit lane, but the Mercedes driver put on a strong recovery, climbing up to P6 thanks to solid race pace and strategy. A remarkable feat, especially in such a competitive race. His bold overtake on Sergio Perez deserves a highlight: in the penultimate lap, the Mexican was struggling to hold his position, and Russell applied the pressure, showing that even starting from the pits, he can maximize every opportunity to score points. And it was crucial, because Lewis Hamilton’s race ended in the gravel on lap two. He crashed in the same corner where Russell had gone off the previous day, triggering the only safety car of the Grand Prix.
Rookie performances: Colapinto and Lawson shine
In addition to the headliners, the rookies also shone at the USGP. Franco Colapinto scored precious points for Williams, finishing in 10th position, far ahead of Albon. The young driver showed impressive control of his hard tires and held off pressure from the likes of Perez. As for Liam Lawson, he continues to prove he deserves a permanent spot on the 2025 F1 grid. Finishing P9, also ahead of his teammate, he’s solidifying his reputation as one of the talents to watch.
Formula 1 World Championship standings
Max Verstappen remains firmly atop the drivers’ standings, with a 57-point lead over Norris—a tough break for the McLaren driver. Leclerc stays in third with 275 points, still a good distance behind. On the constructors’ side, Ferrari can be happy with their weekend. The gap with Red Bull is closing, and with five Grands Prix left, the Scuderia could very well challenge for the constructors’ title. McLaren still at the top of standings.
This article explores the highlights of the 2024 United States Grand Prix: Ferrari’s 1-2 finish, the controversial penalty that marred Norris podium chances, and George Russell’s heroic comeback from the pit lane. We also celebrate the rise of young talents like Franco Colapinto and Liam Lawson while reflecting on Ferrari’s growing challenge to Red Bull for the constructors’ title.
Featured image: Scuderia Ferrari