Max Verstappen claimed his fifth Formula 1 victory of the year at the United States Grand Prix – three of which have come after the summer break.

The resurgent Red Bull racer has won three out of the last four Grand Prix, and now sits just 40 points behind Oscar Piastri in the standings, with Lando Norris also gaining in second.

Max Verstappen closes in on stunning F1 title comeback after perfect weekend in Austin - Verstappen cruised to victory, and now only trails Oscar Piastri by 40 points, while Lando Norris sealed second

Max Verstappen has stated that Red Bull needs to improve its race pace for the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, despite taking victory in the Sprint Race. Verstappen retained his lead from the start at the Circuit of the Americas, with both McLarens retiring after contact caused by Nico Hulkenberg’s Sauber.

The experienced team leader is helping to ensure business as usual, even as the driver's championship race grows more tense.

Oscar Piastri heads into the United States Grand Prix this weekend with his championship lead over teammate Lando Norris down to 22 points.

The Dutchman claimed pole for the F1 sprint race in Austin as the team reveals it experimented with different set-ups during the only practice session

Here's a look at the F1 drivers' championship contenders, recent races that have intensified the title battle, and how the upcoming rounds could give a team an edge over others.