Formula 1: Sainz ahead of Verstappen in first practice - Schumacher 15th

Max Verstappen had to settle for second place in first free practice after winning the world title again.

Formula 1: Sainz ahead of Verstappen in first practice - Schumacher 15th

Max Verstappen had to settle for second place in first free practice after winning the world title again.

The Dutch Red Bull driver finished 0.224 seconds behind Spanish Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz at the Circuit of the Americas. Third place went to record world champion and Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, who is also the record winner on the circuit in Austin, Texas, with five wins from nine races so far.

Sebastian Vettel finished tenth in the Aston Martin. Mick Schumacher was 15 in Haas. The 23-year-old son of record champion Michael Schumacher is under particular pressure because of the unclear future at the home race of his employer Haas. The team bosses are demanding points for a new contract for Mick Schumacher, who competes in Austin with a special helmet finish - including pictures of sister Gina riding western horses.

Antonio Giovinazzi, who was allowed to steer the car of regular driver Kevin Magnussen in the first unit, caused a first setback for the Haas team. The Italian went off the track shortly after the start, briefly hit the barriers and ultimately did not manage more than four laps.

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