F1 drivers face unique physical challenges, with lower back injuries emerging as a key vulnerability due to modern ground-effect dynamics.
Former coach of Max Verstappen, Bradley Scanes, revealed the “most fragile and frequently injured part” of Formula 1 drivers’ bodies.
Scanes, who worked with Verstappen for four years until 2023, believes most drivers are more prone to lower back issues than injuries in other areas.
This was evident with Lewis Hamilton during the 2022 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, when porpoising caused excessive bouncing in his car. He was later seen clutching his lower back as he exited the car in parc fermé.
“The lower back – that’s the most fragile and frequently injured area for drivers,” Scanes explained.
“Many people think their neck muscles are the most affected, but that’s not the case – unless they crash. These drivers are highly trained athletes. Neck strength builds as you drive more, so after testing and pre-season, they’re essentially ready to go.”
With the transition to ground-effect F1 cars in 2022, relying on lower ride heights has impacted their overall physical health.
“The lower back depends on the track, the surface, whether it’s a street circuit or a standard track, and how rigidly they drive the car.”
“It’s the most injured and painful area for a driver when there are lots of bumps. These are constraints that have shifted with ground effect.”
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Ground Effect’s Toll on F1 Drivers’ Lower Backs Ground Effect’s Toll on F1 Drivers’ Lower Backs
