As the Formula 1 season heads into its penultimate stretch, all eyes turn to Austin and the US Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA). With Formula 1 world championship momentum shifting, several drivers now look increasingly capable of snatching a win.
Below is a look at the top contenders, their strengths, and which of them the betting markets are backing ahead of the US Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas this weekend.
Max Verstappen
Believe it or not, but the driver being tipped to win the US Grand Prix by licensed online betting sites is none other than Max Verstappen. The reigning Formula 1 champion put back-to-back wins together before Singapore to make a late push to defend his crown. The Dutchman knows that he’s got to be back on top of the podium to keep the pressure on, starting in Austin. He finished second in Singapore, ahead of the two McLarens, and must better them again in the US.
Lando Norris
Like Verstappen, Lando Norris heads to Austin with something to fight for. He’s second in the drivers’ standings heading into the race, and must better what teammate and current championship leader Oscar Piastri does if he’s to stay in title contention. The cracks are beginning to show between the two McLaren drivers, as they’re both out to be named world champion. McLaren will have to handle their two drivers well from now on, or it could result in problems.
Oscar Piastri
Oscar Piastri has been the best driver this season in Formula 1. He’s top of the drivers’ standings for a reason, and he’s still on course to be named champion. However, it’s interesting that he’s behind both Verstappen and Norris in the betting for this race. The Australian has been at the top of the betting for the most part this term, but are doubts starting to enter the minds of some about his ability to see off the challenge from Norris and Verstappen? Piastri has top spot to defend, and he must keep hitting the podium as a minimum.
George Russell
Everyone was looking towards Piastri, Norris, and Verstappen as potential winners in Singapore. However, they failed to take into account what George Russell in his Mercedes would bring on the day. Russell has been a consistent performer all season and has managed to upset the odds on multiple occasions. Singapore was another example of this, with the Brit winning the race. Now, he will be out to make it back-to-back triumphs in Austin. He’s seen as having an outside chance of making that happen.
Variables That Could Tip the Balance
- Qualifying Position: At COTA, getting pole or the first row is crucial to dictate race tempo and avoid midpack scrambles.
- Tyre Strategy & Degradation: The right tyre calls combined with good tyre management will likely decide the mid-race battles.
- Clean Strategy Execution: Pit stop timing, undercuts, safety cars – the race may hinge on one clever call.
- Driver Mental Composure: In such a close field, small driver mistakes under pressure can prove costly.
2025 Formula 1 World Championship Standings ahead of Round 19 at COTA
Max Verstappen is seen as the man to beat in Austin, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri right behind him. They will be ready to strike in the right circumstances. You can’t write George Russell off either, especially after he upset the odds in Singapore. Either way, not only will this race be electric, but it could prove decisive in the race for the championship.
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