Verstappen deals Norris a blow in the championship: 'That's the positive'

Max Verstappen left the Circuit of the Americas with a smile on his face and spring in his step despite not winning the United States Grand Prix. The Dutchman finished third after Lando Norris received a penalty. Therefore, the Red Bull driver extended his World Championship lead, and he pointed out how positive that was.

McLaren had clear momentum prior to the 'autumn' break period in Formula 1. Norris won the Singapore Grand Prix by 21 seconds. Even though Verstappen had a relatively healthy 52 point lead, the Dutchman would've been concerned about his title chances during the three weeks away from the paddock. Red Bull introduced upgrades and it seemed to pay off.

Verstappen finished ahead of Norris in both the sprint race and the Grand Prix in America, so he has increased his lead to 57 points. That is a significant blow to the Brit's title chances with just five Grands Prix and two sprints remaining. Ferrari also showed positive form which helped Verstappen out.

Verstappen himself is therefore very happy. "That is definitely the positive. I did hope for a little bit more performance today. I think everyone was a little bit better, or at least the same same as yesterday [Saturday], and it felt like we were definitely worse, so I need to understand why what it was because I don't know it," Verstappen said.