Lewis Hamilton has expressed a differing opinion from Max Verstappen regarding the condition of the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) track surface. The discussion centres on the significant bumpiness experienced during the United States Grand Prix weekend in Austin, Texas. Hamilton’s comments follow strong criticism from Verstappen and other drivers.
Verstappen described the COTA bumps as “unacceptable,” citing concerns about potential long-term spinal damage. He reported experiencing vertical load impacts exceeding 9G, with medical checks indicating issues with the lower end of his spine. Verstappen stated that the bumps are not natural and are out of control.
“I love this track, I love this place. It’s one of the best layouts ever and it’s one of the best venues, best city to be at. But for me the bumps are unacceptable.”
The Red Bull driver believes that repeated grinding of the surface is merely a temporary solution. He advocates for a complete resurfacing of the track to address the underlying issue of shifting ground. This, he noted, would require substantial financial investment and time.
In contrast, Hamilton stated that he personally appreciates the bumps, viewing them as adding “character” to the circuit. The Ferrari driver, aged 42, indicated that he finds the challenge engaging and has not experienced any back problems. He specifically mentioned Turns 9 and 19 as bumpy, but not problematic.
Verstappen’s concerns were echoed by other drivers on the grid. Audi’s Gabriel Bortoleto deemed the track surface to be “below F1 standards.” Charles Leclerc of Ferrari also described the surface as “very poor,” particularly in the first sector.
Lando Norris and George Russell have also aligned with Verstappen’s assessment of the track’s condition. The consistent complaints highlight a broader concern among the driver contingent regarding COTA’s surface.
The Circuit of the Americas has a history of surface issues, attributed to its construction on an unstable clay base. This geological characteristic causes the ground to expand and contract with weather changes. Consequently, the track surface frequently ripples and develops bumps.
Despite previous resurfacing efforts, including recent grinding at Turns 10 and 19, the problem persists. MotoGP riders have also previously voiced strong complaints about the track’s condition.
Circuit owner Bobby Epstein acknowledged a specific dip at Turn 1 as unacceptable. However, he maintained that other sections of the track are “in really good shape.” Epstein cited feedback from World Endurance Championship drivers who reported no issues.
The FIA has engaged with drivers on the matter. Tim Malyon, the FIA’s sporting director, explained the difficulties in achieving a permanent solution due to the constantly shifting ground. Max Verstappen held a private discussion with Malyon following the drivers’ briefing.
On Saturday, October 24, 2026, Kimi Antonelli secured pole position for the United States Grand Prix. The Mercedes driver achieved his seventh pole of the season with a lap time of 1:34.035s.
Antonelli outpaced Max Verstappen by 0.179 seconds, with Isack Hadjar qualifying third for Red Bull. Charles Leclerc placed fourth, and Lewis Hamilton secured fifth on the grid for Ferrari. George Russell qualified sixth.
Antonelli, aged 20, has an opportunity to clinch the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship in today’s race. To secure the title, he must win the Grand Prix. Additionally, George Russell must finish ninth or lower, and Lewis Hamilton must finish fifth or lower.
