Verstappen explains missed final lap in US GP Qualifying

Max Verstappen will start the United States Grand Prix from pole position, despite a dramatic end to Qualifying where he missed his final Q3 flying lap due to traffic congestion, though his initial lap proved strong enough to secure the top spot. The Red Bull driver, who won Saturday's Sprint race, aims to further close the 55-point championship gap to leader Oscar Piastri. Verstappen battled challenging conditions, noting a change in wind direction that made his car "move around a lot more," particularly through the esses, making it harder to commit in sector one. He is now focused on converting pole into a Grand Prix victory.