Austin (United States) (AFP)

Six races from the end of an uncertain season as seldom in recent years, marked by five changes of leader in the general classification, only six points separate the two drivers, since Verstappen (Red Bull) has 262.5 and Hamilton (Mercedes ) 256.5, far ahead of Valtteri Bottas (Mercedes, 177), winner in Turkey two weeks ago.

If the Texan stage is not decisive, it is very important because every point is worth a lot at this stage.

And it is covered with a slight veil of uncertainty as to the scenario that will emerge, because it has been two years since the single-seaters have left the slightest trace of rubber on the circuit of the Americas.

The Covid-19 has been there, forcing the cancellation of the GP last year.

However, since then, around 40% of the track has been resurfaced, without the teams being able to go there to analyze the new asphalt.

In fact, they lack recent data on which to rely on how to get the most from their tires.

For the pilots and their teams, this is not, however, a meeting in unknown territory.

Mercedes is clearly showing itself to its advantage, its domination proving to be almost unchallenged since the start of the hybrid era in 2014 ... but, this year, Red Bull is at the level.

"Tight battle"

In the last six editions (out of eight since 2012), the Silver Arrows have won five times, including four with Hamilton.

The Briton also won in 2012 with McLaren.

Dutch Formula One driver Max Verstappen (foreground) and his British opponent Lewis Hamilton during the Dutch Grand Prix at the Zandvoort circuit on September 3, 2021. ANDREJ ISAKOVIC AFP / Archives

Also 2nd in 2019, 3rd in 2018 and 4th in 2013, the seven-time world champion with 100 victories, who tries to overtake Michael Schumacher as one of the most successful, knows the place very well and masters every nook and cranny.

Verstappen, however, has never been unworthy in Austin.

In five editions, he finished on the podium twice (2nd in 2018, 3rd in 2019), twice 4th (in 2015 and 2017) and was forced to retire in 2016.

The Dutchman is confident: "We've always been competitive in the USA, so it's about converting that into a win now. On every circuit we know we can fight at least for a podium, but also for a win, which is different from previous years. It will be another close battle this weekend, I look forward to it. "

Sold out

In the last three GPs (from Italy, Russia and Turkey), Silver Arrows have emerged faster than Red Bulls, although this did not always translate into point gain.

The two rivals retired at Monza after their impressive collision, Verstappen finished 2nd behind Hamilton in Sochi, and the Englishman finished 5th in Istanbul, three places behind the Dutchman.

Dutch Formula One driver Max Verstappen (foreground) and his British opponent Lewis Hamilton clash during the Italian Grand Prix at the Monza circuit on September 12, 2021. ANDREJ ISAKOVIC AFP / Archives

A momentum to which Verstappen attaches little importance.

"We always have to work on every aspect to optimize our performance. If we do that, there is nothing more we can do. We have a very competitive car, but it compares to Mercedes, and it will always have been the big question mark before every race this year. "

For his rival, Lewis Hamilton, "a lot can happen" not only in Austin but in the last five races to follow.

"It's going to be incredibly difficult, there will be times when we can maybe get ahead of them, but in Mexico they're usually very strong, although I don't envision us not being there. But we are. let's take the races one by one and give everything we have. "

One thing is certain, whatever the epilogue, the United States GP arouses the passion of the fans, since some 360,000 spectators are expected over three days.

Much more than the 268,000 of the previous edition in 2019.

Further proof of the growing popularity of F1 in the land of IndyCar and Nascar, where a second GP has been scheduled starting next year, in Miami, Florida.

© 2021 AFP