Red Bull Star Calls Bumps Unacceptable and Challenges Circuit Boss
Max Verstappen is making his frustration with the Circuit of the Americas known ahead of the United States Grand Prix, and the four time Formula 1 world champion says the track’s bumpy surface has become so uncomfortable that he is taking painkillers to get through the weekend.
Verstappen has repeatedly criticized the condition of the Austin circuit, describing the bumps as unacceptable and out of control. His concerns go beyond performance, with the Red Bull driver explaining that the repeated impacts are causing significant discomfort in his lower back.
Following qualifying on Saturday, Verstappen revealed that he has undergone scans that showed problems with the discs in his lower back. He explained that he has been taking medication to manage the pain caused by the track’s rough surface.
The Dutchman also said he has to lift himself out of his seat before reaching Turns 1 and 19 to reduce the impact. For a driver competing at the highest level of motorsport, the situation has become a serious concern.
Verstappen Fires Back at COTA Leadership
The situation escalated after Circuit of the Americas chairman Bobby Epstein responded to Verstappen’s criticism. Epstein said the circuit had addressed many of the bumps and insisted the track was generally in good shape, while acknowledging a problem near Turn 1.
Verstappen was not satisfied with that response.
The Red Bull driver challenged Epstein to experience the conditions from inside a Formula 1 car, suggesting the circuit boss would quickly understand the problem firsthand.
Verstappen also emphasized that the issues extend beyond Turn 1, pointing to significant bumps in the high-speed section between Turns 4 and 5. He believes the underlying ground conditions cannot continue to serve as an excuse for a surface that subjects drivers to such harsh impacts.
His comments highlight a growing disagreement over whether the circuit’s recent work has done enough to address the problems.
Other Drivers Also Raise Concerns
Verstappen is not the only driver speaking out. McLaren’s Lando Norris has also revealed that he has been taking headache medication during the weekend, while Oscar Piastri warned that the bumps near Turns 1 and 19 could create difficulties during Sunday’s race.
Piastri expressed particular concern about braking over the uneven surface while attempting an overtake. A driver hitting a bump at the wrong moment could struggle to control the car, making the issue about more than comfort alone.
However, not everyone shares Verstappen’s assessment. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has acknowledged the bumps but said he enjoys the challenge they create.
A Bigger Problem for Formula 1
The controversy raises questions about how much physical strain drivers should be expected to endure because of circuit conditions.
Verstappen has made it clear that he loves racing at COTA and considers its layout one of the best on the calendar. His frustration is directed at the condition of the surface, not the venue itself.
He believes temporary repairs will not solve the problem permanently and that more extensive work on the track’s foundation may be necessary.
As the United States Grand Prix approaches, attention will remain on whether the circuit can address the drivers’ concerns. For Verstappen, the message is clear: needing painkillers simply to manage the effects of a race weekend should not be considered normal in Formula 1.