F1 US GP: Start Times, Broadcast Details, and Race Preview

Max Verstappen starts on pole for Sunday’s United States Grand Prix, aiming for a perfect weekend after winning the sprint race at Circuit of the Americas. He’ll be joined on the front row by Lando Norris, while championship leader Oscar Piastri starts sixth, having used an older tire set in Q3. This follows a dramatic sprint where both McLaren drivers retired early.

Why it matters:

The drivers' championship battle is intensifying, with Piastri leading Norris by 22 points, and Verstappen 55 points behind. Sunday's Grand Prix is crucial for all three, especially after McLaren's challenging sprint race, as they look to maximize points and gain momentum in the season's closing stages.

The Details:

• Race Start: The United States Grand Prix begins at 2 PM local time (8 PM BST) on Sunday, October 19, covering 56 laps at Circuit of the Americas.
• UK Broadcast: Sky Sports F1 holds exclusive live broadcast rights in the UK. Coverage starts at 6:30 PM BST, 90 minutes before the race.
  • Subscription Options: Sky Sports F1 costs £20/month, or a comprehensive Sky package is £22/month. NOW TV offers a £14.99 day pass or a £31.99 monthly subscription.
• Highlights: Channel 4 will broadcast an 80-minute highlight program at 12:30 AM BST on Monday, October 20. It will also be available on their All 4 catch-up service.
• Radio Coverage: BBC Radio 5 Live will provide live radio commentary, with build-up starting at 7:30 PM UK time.

The big picture:

Verstappen's dominant pole position and sprint race victory put him in a strong position for the main Grand Prix. However, the championship dynamics, especially with Piastri starting further back and Norris alongside Verstappen, promise an exciting race. McLaren's reliability issues during the sprint, which saw both drivers out on the opening lap, add another layer of pressure and intrigue to their performance on Sunday. This race is not just about a single victory but also about the larger championship narrative unfolding.

What's next:

The weather forecast indicates hot and sunny conditions, with air temperatures potentially reaching 32°C. These conditions will test tire management and driver endurance, potentially leading to strategic variations. With an intense championship fight and strong performances from multiple teams, Sunday's Grand Prix is set to be a high-stakes affair that could significantly impact the standings as the season progresses.