Leclerc wins US GP amid Verstappen-Norris podium drama

Charles Leclerc clinched his third win of the season at the US Grand Prix. He led a Ferrari 1-2 finish, with Carlos Sainz in second.

Max Verstappen took third after a dramatic battle with Lando Norris. The McLaren driver crossed the line third but received a five-second penalty, dropping him to fourth.

Leclerc made a stunning start from fourth. He seized the lead into Turn 1 and controlled the race thereafter.

Sainz overcame an early power issue to secure second place.

The real excitement came in the fight for third. Verstappen and Norris engaged in a fierce duel in the closing laps.

Norris briefly passed Verstappen but went off-track, resulting in the penalty.

George Russell mounted an impressive recovery drive. He started from the pitlane but finished sixth.

Nico Hulkenberg scored valuable points for Haas in eighth.

Lewis Hamilton's difficult weekend ended early. He spun into the gravel on lap three, bringing out the safety car.

The result tightens the championship battle. It sets the stage for an intriguing finale to the season.