Verstappen Brands COTA Bumps "Unacceptable" and Warns of Spinal Damage Ahead of US Grand Prix

Max Verstappen has delivered one of his most serious safety warnings yet, branding the bumps at the Circuit of the Americas "unacceptable" and "out of control" ahead of this weekend's United States Grand Prix in Austin. Speaking at Thursday's media day, the four-time world champion revealed he recorded vertical loads of more than 9G on his spine through some corners at last year's race — far above the five to six G drivers typically generate in high-speed turns. Verstappen said medical checks on his spine "don't look that great" at the bottom end and warned the problem has worsened because the 2026 regulations force cars to run lower in corners, making them bottom out harder on the uneven surface. "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," Verstappen said. "But for me the bumps are unacceptable." The Dutchman rejected the long-standing excuse that the circuit's marshland foundations are to blame, arguing organisers should have reinforced the surface properly. He was backed by world champion Lando Norris, who said COTA "doesn't fit anywhere close to what those regulations are now". George Russell offered a contrasting view, calling the bumps "just part of racing". The warning lands ahead of a potentially decisive weekend: Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli carries a 102-point championship lead and could become Formula 1's youngest world champion in Austin if results fall his way, while Verstappen is chasing a third straight Grand Prix victory. Practice begins Friday.