Norris Sets Pace in First Austin Practice, Hülkenberg Close Behind
Austin, Texas – mclaren’s Lando Norris topped the timing sheets in the opening practice session for the 2024 United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas, clocking a lap time of 1:33.289. Aston Martin’s nico Hülkenberg followed closely, finishing just 0.034 seconds behind Norris.
The first practice session provides crucial data for teams to assess car performance and setup adjustments ahead of qualifying and the race. With the championship battle intensifying, every tenth of a second counts as teams prepare for a strategic weekend. The session also offered valuable track time for drivers to familiarize themselves with the unique characteristics of the Circuit of the Americas, a 20-turn, 3.427-mile track known for its challenging elevation changes and technical sections.
Rounding out the top five were Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc (+0.248), Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen (+0.364), and Mercedes’ George Russell (+0.488). Liam Lawson of Racing Bulls secured 13th place with a time of 1:34.619, +1.325 behind Norris.Alpine drivers Franco Colapinto and Pierre Gasly finished 16th and 17th respectively, while Carlos Sainz of Williams and Charles Leclerc of Ferrari completed the top 20 with times of 1:35.874 (+2.580) and 1:36.080 (+2.786).
