FIA orders changes to kerbs at Red Bull Ring

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The FIA has altered the kerbs at the last two corners of the Red Bull Ring following complaints from several drivers and floor damage suffered by cars which ran wide in Friday's free practice sessions.

Romain Grosjean and Felipe Massa fell victim to the kerbs' abrupt profile after off-track excursions, but Max Verstappen was particularly critical of the kerbs' design.

"This is not the highest-grip track and with the higher speeds this year if you have a moment, it is difficult to correct without hitting a kerb or going through the gravel, which a lot of people have experienced today," explained the Red Bull driver.

"The yellow kerbs were definitely a challenge, and I think maybe they are not the type of kerbs for Formula 1, the cars just aren't designed for it."

The FIA has changed the kerbs on the exit of Turn 9, with repairs to the damaged gully strip, while the 'baguette' kerbs have been moved closer to Turn 10 to help drivers who run wide at Turn 9 seamlessly rejoin the track.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.