"It should be banned" - F1 drivers still divided over cooling vests
F1 drivers are split over the use and importance of cooling vests as the series is set for its fourth "heat hazard" race of 2026. Driver comfort in hot climates has been a point of conversation since the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, when several drivers experienced heat exhaustion symptoms. In response, the FIA and all F1 teams commissioned extensive research, ending up with a standard cooling vest ...…
Formula One drivers are divided over the use of cooling vests as they prepare for the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix, which is expected to face sweltering conditions. Four-time champion Max Verstappen is among the skeptics, stating that the vests are not necessary despite the heat hazard declared by the FIA. He finds the cooling technology limiting and believes it doesn't perform well enough for the duration of the race.
Ferrari's Charles Leclerc would opt for the vest if it lasted longer than 20 laps, but acknowledges it could be detrimental after that point. Mercedes' Kimi Antolin admits he had bad experiences with the vest last year, citing issues with the pump system and heat stroke. However, Mercedes' teammate George Russell strongly advocates for cooling vests, describing the lack of them as akin to drivers hallucinating or struggling to breathe during races.
He believes that engineering and manufacturing resources should be dedicated to making the system work effectively, in order to provide a significant benefit for drivers.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Drivers divided on cooling vests as sweltering conditions loom in Singapore nst.com.my
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