WATCH: Formula 1 drivers hilariously tries to basket in NBA style during day 1 of US Grand Prix

The United States Grand Prix weekend kicked off with high spirits and even higher attempts at hoops as Formula 1 drivers swapped their steering wheels for basketballs in a lighthearted, NBA-style shooting contest. On Day 1 at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), drivers were seen trying to show off their basketball skills in between racing, much to the amusement of fans and paddock personnel.

Big names like reigning champion Max Verstappen, rising star Oscar Piastri, and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc were among the many drivers who participated in the fun event. The drivers gave it their best shot — quite literally — but the results were far from the precision they display on the track. Verstappen, known for his incredible focus and accuracy in F1, hilariously missed his attempt at the basket, laughingly admitting, “Ah! I missed.”

Here is the video:

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This light moment captured the essence of the US Grand Prix, where drivers often indulge in off-track antics to relax from the pressures of racing. The US race weekends are known for creating a laid-back environment, allowing drivers to step out of their competitive zone and engage in fun activities, from basketball to media pranks.

Max Verstappen ends his pole drought!

Meanwhile, the Red Bull team celebrated a major on-track success. Max Verstappen clinched pole position for the Sprint race with a phenomenal lap in the final qualifying session, much to the delight of team principal Christian Horner.

Horner expressed his satisfaction with the team’s strong performance, saying on Instagram, “It’s great to be back and see immediate evidence of the team’s relentless work since Singapore. We’ll be focused on capitalizing on this position to bring us a good start here in Texas.” As the weekend continues, fans are eagerly anticipating both the serious racing and the lighthearted antics that make the US Grand Prix one of the most entertaining events on the F1 calendar.