Max Verstappen reveals shocking physical injury over F1 concern

Max Verstappen has opened up on worsening physical issues with his spine, revealing the toll taken by the bumps of the Circuit of the Americas.

The rough state of the Austin track surface has become a major talking point during the United States Grand Prix weekend, with several drivers, including Verstappen, complaining about the conditions. 

Lando Norris has detailed that he is having to take pills due to the headaches that are generated from the bumps.

But for Verstappen, it is his spine that is causing the biggest concern, revealing that the issues began after he had pains in his feet.

"They [the bumps] are really bad," Verstappen told Viaplay.

"Before Turn 1 and Turn 19 I lift myself out of the seat before I get there. Otherwise it's just not doable.”

“At one point, I had a few scans done because my feet had been bothering me quite a bit over the past few years. 

“That’s when things came to light. You can see it in certain discs at the bottom [of his back]; there’s nothing left there. 

“It’s just grey. Those are things people don’t often think about.”

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Ahead of the race weekend, Verstappen labelled the bumps as “unacceptable”, as they are known to be more severe at COTA compared to many of the other circuits on the calendar.

Like Norris and his headaches, Verstappen is having to take tablets to combat the pain - but for the four-time champion, it relates to his spine.

“I take pills,” he said. “We’re trying to manage it a bit.

“When I sometimes see certain people doing their sport and how they have to live with the consequences afterward, I think: I’m glad I don’t do that sport. 

“That’s not usually the case in Formula 1."