Many MotoGP riders have already expressed their concerns about the asphalt at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, which will also host a Formula One Grand Prix later this month. It is more bumpy than ever and causes dangerous situations, a situation that has been discussed in the safety committee, as the organisation seems to have no other choice than resurfacing the circuit.
MotoGP riders give COTA ultimatum
The surface the track is built on has a recurring problem: it expands when it holds water, then shrinks when it loses it. A cold winter and wet spring have made the problem even worse than usual.
Several riders complained about the condition of the asphalt, and to the safety committee they have now put forward minimum requirements that the circuit must meet. “If they don’t resurface at least the first two sectors and part of the third sector, we won’t be coming back here,” said Suzuki rider Joan Mir as reported by The Race.
The track has been resurfaced two years ago, but MotoGP drivers confirm that the condition only got worse. Championship leader Fabio Quartararo was interviewed by Motorsport.com on this matter: “It’s really bad. I can’t imagine it, we said three years ago they need to resurface and it’s even worse. It’s just acceptable to race, I don’t know what to say. But it’s a joke.” – he explained.
According to the Yamaha rider, the situation requires changes: “I usually don’t go to the safety commission, but when there is something serious, I will go and today something serious that for the safety is… the track is unsafe. It’s clear to say that it’s not great and we need to resurface everything.” – he concluded.
Leave a Reply