The heat is on at Bahrain GP in Sepang

Bahrain Grand Prix set to heat up in Sepang

The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia has been classified as a heat-hazard race by the BBC, marking the third such designation of the season. Temperatures are forecast to soar up to 33°C during the event, with humidity levels expected to be high. This is the second consecutive race in Malaysia to receive the heat-hazard classification, following the Austrian and Italian grands prix.

The heat-hazard status is given when temperatures exceed 31°C at any point during the race weekend. Drivers in these conditions can utilize an optional in-car cooling system that circulates a chilled liquid, such as glycol, through pipes in a fireproof suit worn beneath their racing gear. However, if they opt not to use the cooling system, they must carry an additional 5kg of ballast to prevent gaining any competitive advantage.

The cooling system's development was spurred by last year's introduction of the heat-hazard classification. Some drivers have chosen not to use it due to discomfort and fear the coolant could deplete prematurely, causing the internal car temperature to soar above 40°C – a concerning figure given drivers already wear multiple layers of fireproof clothing, including a helmet and balaclava.

Sepang International Circuit CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif assured that the circuit is fully prepared for this weekend's race, with nearly 100,000 tickets sold, setting a record for the highest sales in the circuit's history.