The Red Bull driver denounced the numerous potholes at the Circuit of the Americas and asked for structural solutions. Lando Norris and George Russell also commented on the conditions of the track.
Max Verstappen, four-time Formula 1 world champion, harshly criticized the state of the Circuit of the Americas, in Austin, Texas, where the 2026 United States Grand Prix will be held this weekend. The Dutch driver described the number of potholes present on the track as “unacceptable” and demanded measures to solve the root problem.
Although he highlighted his affinity with the circuit and with the American city, Verstappen warned that the irregularities on the track have reached a worrying level.
“I love this circuit, I love this city. It is one of the most beautiful tracks and one of the best places to come to. But the potholes here are unacceptable,” said the Red Bull driver.
The Dutchman explained that the repairs carried out in recent years have not solved the problem, since he considers it necessary to reinforce the land on which the circuit was built. The surface is located on soft ground that can move depending on weather conditions.
Verstappen recalled that the irregularities were already evident during a World Endurance test held in September and warned that the situation is getting worse.
Norris and Russell also question the conditions
Reigning world champion Lando Norris also expressed concern about the state of the circuit. The McLaren driver revealed that, on occasions, he has had to resort to medication to relieve headaches caused by vibrations and shocks when driving over potholes.
For his part, George Russell, Mercedes representative, defended the possibility of resurfacing the circuits every two years to improve driving conditions, although he recognized that irregularities are part of the demands of racing.
The Circuit of the Americas was completely resurfaced in 2024 and received new adjustments this year in turns 9 and 11. However, criticism from the drivers shows that the interventions carried out so far have not managed to eliminate the discomfort.
Safety and driving conditions will once again be under attention during the United States Grand Prix, on a track that has established itself as one of the highlights of the Formula 1 calendar.
