The Austin circuit, not worthy of a F1 circuit for some drivers because of the bumps
The quality of the Austin circuit's coating has been fiercely criticized by Max Verstappen. Fernando Alonso suffered the consequences of these bumps and had to retire.
For several seasons, the quality of the Austin circuit’s surface has been vigorously criticized by Formula 1 drivers. In response to the drivers’ demands, the COTA had repaved the track in 2022, then carried out work on turns 12, 14 and 16 for this season. However, Max Verstappen, winner of the 2023 edition, points out ongoing problems. According to comments reported by Autosport, the triple World Champion considers that the track surface deserves a remake. « It needs to be redone because at the moment, I feel like it’s better suited to a rally car. I jump and bounce », complained the Dutchman.
« In an F1 car, you probably don’t see it as much because, of course, we are stuck to the ground due to downforce, but the bumps and jumps that we have in certain places are far too significant. I don’t think it’s at the standard of an F1 circuit. »
Problem for the floor
The bumps on the surface of the circuit are not just a problem for the comfort of drivers in a race. These bumps are real constraints for the teams. The reform led by the FIA in 2022 required the stables to switch to a car with the lowest possible ground clearance to generate support through the ground effect. However, the irregularities of the surface cause frictions damaging the underside of the car and especially the floor located in the center of the floor used to protect the chassis.
Fernando Alonso suffered during the race. The Spaniard was forced to retire on the 50th lap (out of 56).« There was a part of the ground on the right, which was broken, about half a meter long », explains Mike Krack, the director of the Aston Martin team. « We know it’s a tough circuit, you come here, you strengthen everything, you strengthen the brake calipers, you strengthen the deflectors, you strengthen everything that is possible. »
After the race, the cars of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc were disqualified for excessive wear of the floor and therefore too low car. This concrete case clearly illustrates the problem encountered by the drivers and engineers here.
