Max Verstappen has criticised the condition of the Circuit of the Americas ahead of this weekend’s United States Grand Prix, describing its surface as unacceptable and claiming the bumps are damaging his spine.
The four-time Formula One world champion said he and other drivers had raised concerns with the sport’s governing body, the FIA, and requested improvements to the Austin circuit. However, he said their complaints had yet to produce a satisfactory solution.
Verstappen described the situation as “out of control”, despite praising the venue and the city.
Red Bull Driver Calls for Major Track Repairs
Verstappen said the circuit’s uneven surface remained a significant problem, arguing that previous attempts to address the bumps had only provided temporary relief.
“I love this track, I love this place,” the Dutchman said. “It’s one of the best, one of the best venues, one of the best cities to be at.”
However, he stressed that the condition of the track needed to be addressed more comprehensively.
“But the bumps are unacceptable. Over time they’ve found a bit of a solution here and there, but it’s just putting a plaster on the bigger problem,” he said.
Verstappen argued that a more extensive reconstruction would be necessary to resolve the issue permanently.
“You need to open up the track fully (to sort it out). That costs a lot of money and time but that’s the only way to get rid of it because these bumps are not natural,” he added.
Austin Circuit’s Ground Conditions Under Scrutiny
The Circuit of the Americas is located approximately 15 miles southeast of downtown Austin and hosted its first Formula One race 14 years ago.
Designed by German circuit architect Hermann Tilke, the track was built on marshland, with the underlying ground conditions cited as a factor in the persistent surface problems.
Verstappen said the circuit needed stronger reinforcement to prevent the bumps from continuing to affect drivers.
“You can say soil is the problem, but you need to make sure you reinforce it more,” he said.
The Dutchman’s comments come as drivers continue to seek improvements to the circuit ahead of the weekend’s race.
Antonelli Could Reach Championship Milestone in Austin
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, 20, could secure the Formula One world championship at the United States Grand Prix if he extends his lead from 102 points to 125.
Reaching that margin would leave five rounds remaining in the season.
Antonelli’s championship position adds another significant storyline to the Austin weekend, which has also been marked by Verstappen’s concerns over the condition of the track.
