3 talking points | US GP: Records and pride as first of final four races kick off

Carlos Sainz secured pole position for today's United States Grand Prix in his Ferrari. It is the first time that the Italian team will start from the front at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA).

Here are three key talking points we'd like to see unravel at the race this evening (21:00 SA time).

1. Verstappen going for the record

A fortnight ago in Japan, Red Bull's Max Verstappen wrapped up the 2022 Formula 1 Drivers' championship with four races to spare. Despite confusion around the title, Verstappen is now a two-time champion, having first done so with his Red Bull team in 2021.

But the remaining races of 2022 will be important for one thing: can Verstappen best Sebastian Vettel and Michael Schumacher for the greatest number of wins in a single season?

Coming into the event, Verstappen is currently on 12 wins, one away from equaling the two German drivers. If the Dutchman manages to win the remaining four races, he will sit pretty on 16 wins in one season, underlining the fact that this year has been his most dominant yet.

Furthermore, if Red Bull outscores Ferrari by 18 points in the race, they will be named F1 Constructors' champions for the first time since 2013.

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2. Ferrari racing for pride

Though Sainz emerged from qualifying with pole position in the bag, it's no secret that he has been trailing both teammate Charles Leclerc and Verstappen throughout the season. Both drivers were - and are - quicker than him and a lot more consistent. And even with Sainz starting from the front, it's not guaranteed he will win the race.

Starting the race at COTA, drivers will race uphill before braking for Turn 1. However, the driver