THE STRATEGIST: Could Norris, Hamilton or Leclerc have beaten Verstappen in Austin with a different strategy?
/GettyImages-1737966378.webp)
Despite winning the 19-lap Saturday Sprint in Austin by 9.4 seconds, Max Verstappen struggled throughout the Grand Prix itself, complaining of issues with brake performance – and only finished 2.2 seconds ahead of Lewis Hamilton in P2 (before the Briton's disqualification).
So could any of the chasing pack have beaten the Dutchman on the day had they employed a different strategy? Former Aston Martin strategist Bernie Collins takes a look at the data to find out...

Unlock exclusive F1 content and more with F1 Unlocked. Totally free.
Membership gets you closer with:
Curated insider content
Live like an F1 insider with exclusive access and VIP experiences
Member benefits, rewards and offers
Next Up
Related Articles
Williams’ ‘Right of Review’ over Sainz penalty successful
Verstappen ‘central’ to Red Bull & Ford’s engine project
F1 teams up with Pottery Barn Kids/Teen for home range
What tyres will the teams and drivers have for the Azerbaijan GP?
PERMUTATIONS: How can McLaren win the 2025 title in Azerbaijan?
What’s on at the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix