Formula 1 drivers are not impressed with Pirelli’s 2020 tyres.
The drivers got their first taste of next year’s tyres during Friday practice in Austin, but their biggest complaint was actually about the circuit.
"They’re not bumps, they’re ski jumps," said Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel.
Lewis Hamilton said he had to lie down after the morning session with a severe headache.
"There comes a point when you think ’Is this normal or should we do something about it?’" Max Verstappen agreed.
"In some places the wheels come off the ground and it hurts. I’m worried I am hurting my back," the Red Bull driver added.
Pirelli’s prototype 2020 tyres, however, got a similarly poor initial review.
"My first impression is very bad," said McLaren’s Carlos Sainz.
Hamilton added: "I’d rather not say anything, or I’ll say something I regret."
But Pirelli boss Mario Isola defended the Italian tyre supplier’s changes for 2020.
"We have seen signs that the new tyre provides slightly less grip, but it is more consistent over a stint," he said.
"Drivers always want maximum grip, so I can understand if they are not overly enthusiastic."