Hamilton rejects claims that bumps are unbearable: I’m 42 and my back is fine

The track surface in Austin is a major talking point at the United States Grand Prix year after year. This season, Max Verstappen has once again led the criticism of the asphalt, which he says forces drivers to take painkillers. But, as with everything in life, opinions differ.

Lewis Hamilton has challenged the claims made by Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. One of Formula 1’s veterans, whose back has taken quite a pounding in the cockpit over the years, said he had no problem with the quality of the asphalt in Austin.

While Verstappen stepped up his criticism before and during the weekend, even admitting that driving a stiff car on bumpy circuits had caused him health problems, Hamilton said he barely felt the bumps in Texas. Lewis went even further, saying he liked the American circuit’s uneven surface.

“It is bumpy, but I think it’s okay. I didn’t have any problems with bumps,” said the seven-time world champion. “I personally like the bumps, I think it adds character to the track.”

“I love the challenge of that because you know the car is moving and you have to correct it. In a perfect world, it would be a flat track, but then there would be a lack of character. That’s what gives this track that little bit more,” said Hamilton.

That stands in stark contrast to what we heard from Max Verstappen and other drivers this weekend. Of course, everyone is built differently and has a different genetic make-up. In this case, however, one side argues that the track surface needs immediate repairs, while the other likes it. “I can tell you from the checks that I’ve done from my spine, the bottom end doesn’t look that great,” said Verstappen, who later admitted he was taking medication to help.

Hamilton, however, says he has no such problem. “It’s already a great layout. The bumps give it a bit more,” Lewis continued.

“Turn 1 (where one of the most difficult bumps on the circuit was located, editor’s note) is not a problem for us at all. Turn 19 and Turn 9, which are a little bit bumpy, but everyone’s in the same boat,” Hamilton stressed.

“I don’t think this is bad. People are complaining, but I’m 42 and my back is fine,” he added.