Prior to the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, the pre-programme featured the W Series and National Formula 4. In both races, a driver was forced onto the kerbstones on the exit of the first corner, launching the car into the air.
The majority of F1 drivers have complained about the orange kerbstones. Three hours before the start of the race they wanted the kerbstones removed to prevent incidents.
"While we don't think a Formula One car will be launched, because we have much more downforce, we also don't want to be forced to drive over them", reports George Russell on Auto, Motor und Sport. "If you're driving on your own, you won't hit the kerbstones at all, but in a battle, someone may force you to take a wide line at this point."
FIA has removed kerbstones
The FIA reports that they have removed the kerbstones after the incidents in the previous races. The kerbstones are now on the list of places where track limits are measured, so drivers won't abuse them.