The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, is undergoing repaving to address the track’s bumpiness, which significantly affected car performance during last year’s Formula 1 race. The new asphalt aims to provide a smoother racing surface, enhancing the overall experience for both drivers and teams.
The decision to repave follows issues in the 2023 race when Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc were disqualified for floor measurement violations, attributed to excessive wear caused by the bumpy track and sprint format. Both Mercedes and Ferrari pointed to these track conditions as the main culprit behind the disqualifications.
A Smoother Ride for Drivers
By laying down new asphalt, COTA aims to eliminate the bumps and irregularities that made the circuit challenging last season. The fresh surface is expected to provide a more consistent and comfortable driving experience, reducing car wear and enhancing safety.
The track’s management has taken these complaints seriously, with hopes that the repaving will improve race quality and prevent the kind of disqualifications seen in 2023, ensuring a more competitive and fair race for all teams.
