This weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix has been declared an official Formula One “Heat Hazard” — the first time new regulations to help drivers cope with extreme conditions have been triggered.
Race director Rui Marques confirmed on Thursday that drivers will be allowed to wear cooling vests during Sunday’s night race, with ambient temperatures forecast to exceed 31C.
Singapore’s Marina Bay circuit is regarded as one of the sport’s toughest tests, with high humidity and a two-hour race often leaving drivers several kilogrammes lighter.
The FIA said cooling vests, fitted with pumps and coolant tubes, will not be mandatory. But cars must carry the system, and drivers who opt out will carry an extra 0.5kg of ballast to avoid any competitive advantage.
The kit was introduced after the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, where several drivers required medical treatment for heat exhaustion. Mercedes’ George Russell trialled the vest in Bahrain earlier this year, saying it was “so far, so good” despite its bulk in a cramped cockpit.
Palpable heat and physical strain are part of the unique challenge at Singapore, which returns as one of Formula 1’s most demanding races under lights on Sunday.
About the Author
