Singapore declares heat danger: how F1 drivers are saving themselves from the heat.

According to The Sun: In Singapore, temperatures are expected to rise this weekend as Formula 1 again tests the track on the streets of Marina Bay.

On Thursday, a heat danger was declared, which means that a new cooling system for drivers will be installed in all 20 cars on the track.

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This cooling system consists of a number of components including a pump, pipes, and a thermal accumulator with liquid running through tubes sewn into a special vest.

All elements of the system must be installed on the car during the weekend, and the driver decides whether to wear the vest.

So far, several F1 drivers, including Charles Leclerc, Ollie Bearman, Isaac Hadjar, and Yuki Tsunoda, have been spotted in these vests.

However, not everyone is fond of it.

What are F1 cooling vests?

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) started reviewing its protocols regarding extreme temperatures after the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix.

Before the race, several drivers received medical assistance due to dehydration and heat exhaustion. Esteban Ocon admitted he felt nauseous during the race, while George Russell recounted how he nearly fainted at the wheel.

Former Williams driver Logan Sargeant even exited the race due to an inability to cope with the conditions.

Thus, the FIA decided to implement a driver cooling system.

It emerged ahead of the 2025 season along with the concept of racing under heat conditions.

While drivers may choose to wear the cooling vest, starting next year it will become mandatory during competitions under heat danger.

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The cooling fluid is pumped through small tubes in the vest, helping the driver to slightly lower their temperature during the race.

However, the system has its reliability issues.

In the event of a malfunction, the vest can become a thermal insulator, and drivers have complained about the discomfort of the heavy and tight material, especially under high G-forces.

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Why do drivers wear them?

Some Formula 1 stars have decided to wear cooling vests this weekend due to the race's heat danger characteristics.

This new category was introduced this year and applies when temperatures during the race exceed 31°C.

This weekend will be the first instance of a Grand Prix being held under heat danger warnings.

What has been said?

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton admitted he is not sure about the comfort of wearing the vest, as it is uncomfortable and itchy.

“I’ve never used it, but I’ll try. It’s pretty uncomfortable. It itches, so I’m not sure I want to drive a car with that itchy top.”

However, Carlos Sainz is not as worried about the prospect of wearing the vest.

“Teams have managed to make it better each time. Initially, it worked for about half an hour. I hope now the whole system can work for at least an hour. It’s a two-hour race. I’ve done it ten times in Singapore. If it breaks or doesn’t work, I’m not worried. I’ll race and come out fresh as always. But if it all works, it’ll be better because there will be less suffering.”

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The driver cooling system is a new step in the development of safety in motorsport, especially under high temperature conditions. Drivers and teams must now adapt to new requirements, which could significantly impact their performance during races.

The first use of cooling vests this weekend in Singapore reflects Formula 1's commitment to ensuring driver safety in challenging weather conditions. Whether drivers can find a balance between comfort and performance in these new conditions remains to be seen in the race.