Mercedes already start to criticise new kerbs in Austin

Before a car has touched the tarmac in Austin, the Mercedes team have started to criticise the new kerbs installed at turns 16 and 17. The FIA have placed the kerbs to prevent a similar incident to that of Max Verstappen and Kimi Raikkonen 12 months ago.

Verstappen was deemed to cut the corner when overtaking Raikkonen on the final lap. He picked up a five-second penalty for his ride off the track which cost him the podium.

The new kerbs are two meters wide and 50mm high. See here for the news about the installation.

According to Auto Motor und Sport, the Mercedes engineers doubt whether they'll help change anything at all.

"The curbstones are too low if you drive over them, nothing happens. The bottom of the car may be damaged a bit, but that would not be important in an attack during the last lap."

Charlie Whiting F1 race director has said he doesn't agree with the criticism laid out by Mercedes.

"The new kerbs will keep the drivers from going with four wheels off the circuit. If drivers are going to try, we will intervene."