Italian Grand Prix declared heat-hazard race

The Italian Grand Prix has been designated a heat-hazard race due to soaring temperatures across the country following the recent summer heatwave. This official classification is warranted when forecasted temperatures exceed 31C at any point during the event on Sunday. Around Monza, located northeast of Milan, ambient temperatures are anticipated to hover in the mid-30C range across the weekend, with a peak of 36C recorded near Milan's Linate airport on Wednesday afternoon.

Consequently, drivers are granted access to a cooling system that circulates chilled substances like glycol through a fireproof apparatus worn beneath their racing suits. This cooling apparatus is not obligatory; however, any competitor opting not to utilize it must carry 5kg of ballast in their vehicle to prevent any potential competitive edge.

This marks the second race this year to be labeled a heat hazard, the first being Austria early in the summer heatwave. Certain drivers opt against employing the cooling kit due to discomfort and concerns over coolant depletion prior to the grand prix. If such an incident occurs, the liquid ends up at the car's operational temperature, which is significantly higher than the ambient temperature.

Inside an F1 car's cockpit, temperatures can soar above 40C, with drivers encumbered by multiple layers of fireproof attire, a balaclava, and a helmet, making overheating a grave concern.