The heat is on at Bahrain GP in Sepang

The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, set to take place this weekend, has been categorized as a heat-hazard race due to forecasted temperatures up to 33°C. This marks the third such classification of the season, following events in Austria and Italy. A heat hazard status is declared when temperatures exceed 31°C at any point during the race. The race weekend sees temperatures predicted to range between 31°C and 33°C, with high humidity and potential rain showers.

Bahrain has replaced the cancelled 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix, originally scheduled for April due to regional conflicts. The heat-hazard classification permits drivers to utilize an in-car cooling system that circulates a cooled liquid, such as glycol, through fireproof equipment worn under their suits. While this cooling kit is optional, drivers who decline it must add 5kg of weight to their cars to prevent any performance advantage.

This designation was implemented last year upon the development of cooling vest technology. However, some drivers have opted out of using the cooling system due to discomfort and worries about the coolant depleting before the race concludes. If that occurs, the liquid could reach temperatures as high as the car itself, which can surpass 40°C inside the cockpit, given the additional layers of fireproof clothing worn by the drivers.

Sepang International Circuit CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif confirmed extensive preparations for this weekend's race, noting that nearly 100,000 tickets have been sold, setting a record for the highest sales in the circuit's history.