F1 drivers not happy with 2020 tires

Albon on the 2020 tires. Drivers on the 2020 test tires Friday were 3-seconds off the pace. They're true dogs

(GMM) Formula 1 drivers are not impressed with Pirelli's 2020 tires.

The drivers got their first taste of next year's tires 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 tires, however, got a similarly poor initial review.

"My first impression is very bad," said McLaren's Carlos Sainz Jr.

Hamilton added: "I'd rather not say anything, or I'll say something I regret."

But Pirelli boss Mario Isola defended the Italian tire supplier's changes for 2020.

"We have seen signs that the new tire 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."