Track Repairs Aim to Improve the Racing Surface
The Circuit of The Americas is making important improvements to its track surface ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, with crews targeting some of the bumps that have challenged drivers in recent seasons.
COTA has developed a reputation for its uneven surface, partly because of ground movement beneath the circuit. Those bumps can make it difficult for drivers to keep their cars stable, especially through high-speed corners where maintaining balance and control is critical.
For 2026, the section from the entry of Turn 9 through the entry of Turn 11 has been resurfaced. Crews have also smoothed bumps on the approaches to Turns 12 and 19, giving drivers a more consistent surface in several important areas of the lap.
Why Smoothing the Track Matters
The changes could make a noticeable difference for teams as they prepare their cars for the weekend. A smoother surface can help improve stability under braking, provide more predictable grip and allow drivers to attack corners with greater confidence.
COTA’s combination of long straights, heavy braking zones and fast direction changes already places significant demands on Formula 1 cars. Bumps can make setup decisions even more difficult, forcing engineers to balance aerodynamic performance with a suspension that can handle an uneven track.
However, the improvements do not guarantee that every section will be bump-free. Ground movement has caused recurring surface problems at COTA, meaning maintenance will likely remain an ongoing challenge.
The updated surface gives teams another variable to evaluate during practice. If the repairs deliver a smoother ride, drivers could benefit from greater consistency throughout the United States Grand Prix weekend.