Bumpy Interlagos Circuit Leaves F1 Stars Demanding Fixes

Interlagos Bumps Spark F1 Drivers’ Outcry on Rough Tracks

05/11/2024

Interlagos’s rough surface has drawn heavy criticism from F1 drivers, who say the bumps make racing conditions increasingly uncomfortable.

The resurfacing of the Interlagos circuit was widely criticized throughout the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Max Verstappen lamented the pronounced bumps but noted that the issue would be less significant with cars other than the 2022 generation.

“Yes, it was still very bad. In some spots, you couldn’t even drive because of severe bottoming out, even in the wet. So something needs to be done next year to improve the situation,” Verstappen stated.

“I know that a lot of people put a lot of effort into it. I don’t want to speak poorly of anyone. I know they always do their best with the surface. But with the cars we’re currently driving, it’s really too bumpy. And yes, something needs to be done.”

Esteban Ocon also confirmed it would have been better previously: “I think the grip is actually very good. You know, it’s just a few bumps that we’re encountering with these cars; probably if it were 2021 or 2020, it would have been fine.”

“But these cars run very low, and all the heat goes straight into the chassis, so there’s no suspension in there. And yes, I think it’s much better than before in terms of grip, but the bumps need to be improved.”

Bumpy Interlagos Circuit Leaves F1 Stars Demanding Fixes

Pierre Gasly, however, was more outspoken, lamenting that a newly laid asphalt wasn’t flawless: “They’ve all said it. The bumps were horrible; I don’t understand why they can’t do a proper job with that.”

Bumpy Interlagos Circuit Leaves F1 Stars Demanding Fixes Bumpy Interlagos Circuit Leaves F1 Stars Demanding Fixes

Go toTop