Max Verstappen has launched a scathing criticism of the Circuit of the Americas ahead of the United States Grand Prix, describing the circuit’s persistent bumps as “unacceptable” and warning that the problem is getting worse. The four-time Formula 1 world champion is not alone in his concerns, with reigning champion Lando Norris also questioning the condition of the Austin track.
Despite considering COTA one of the most attractive circuits on the Formula 1 calendar, Verstappen believes its deteriorating surface has become a serious issue that can no longer be ignored.
Verstappen says Austin’s bumps are getting out of control
The Red Bull driver has made little secret of his frustration with the uneven surface at the Texas venue, where the bumps have troubled drivers for several years.
“The bumps here are unacceptable,” Verstappen said, making clear that the condition of the circuit remains a significant concern.
The Dutchman also expressed doubts about the prospect of tackling the circuit again, highlighting the physical demands placed on drivers by its uneven surface.
“So I’m really not looking forward to driving there – if only for the sake of my spine. I joked about it before I came here, but it’s really no joke. It’s been brought up for years, and now it’s slowly getting out of control,” he explained.
His comments underline the growing frustration among drivers over a problem that has persisted despite previous attempts to address it.
Verstappen calls for more substantial repairs
Verstappen believes the measures taken to improve the surface have failed to tackle the underlying cause of the problem.
He described the recent repairs as little more than “a band-aid”, arguing that the circuit faces a much deeper structural issue.
“This area needs to be reinforced as a priority,” the Red Bull driver demanded.
Verstappen also challenged those responsible for maintaining the circuit, arguing that the underlying ground conditions should not be accepted as a sufficient explanation for the ongoing difficulties.
“Of course, you can use the ground as an excuse for the problem, but they should have addressed it earlier and ensured that the foundation was better reinforced,” he added.
The comments raise questions about whether more extensive engineering work will be required to provide a lasting solution rather than temporary improvements.
Norris reveals the physical impact of COTA’s surface
Verstappen is not the only leading driver to express concern about the circuit. Lando Norris has also criticised the condition of the Austin track, suggesting that its uneven surface falls short of the standards expected of modern Formula 1 venues.
The McLaren driver pointed out that regulations governing the construction of new circuits are strict, but argued that COTA’s current condition does not reflect those expectations.
Norris described the surface as “pretty bad” and explained that the bumps can have a direct physical impact on drivers inside the cockpit.
“There are many places where I have to take headache tablets before I go out. Simply because it’s bumpy and you hit your head quite hard against the headrests because of the unevenness. It’s not a pleasant thing.”
His comments add to the pressure on circuit organisers to find a more effective solution, particularly given the physical demands of modern Formula 1 machinery.
Austin could also play a decisive role in the title race
The condition of the circuit is not the only storyline heading into the United States Grand Prix. Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli could also strengthen his position in the championship battle at Austin.
The young Italian has the opportunity to move closer to becoming the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history, although the outcome will depend on his own result and the performances of his championship rivals.
With the title fight intensifying, drivers will want the focus to remain on racing rather than concerns about the track surface. Verstappen and Norris have made their positions clear, leaving circuit officials facing renewed questions about whether the existing repairs are sufficient.
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