Formula 1 drivers are up in arms, demanding changes to the rules surrounding cooling vests after a scorching Qatar Grand Prix in 2023 left many struggling with heat exhaustion. Oliver Bearman, a driver for Haas, is leading the charge, urging the FIA to revisit the regulations regarding the use of these vital cooling devices.
The FIA introduced driver-worn cooling vests for the 2024 season, allowing drivers to utilize them at their discretion. However, controversy arises when the ambient temperature falls below the 31C threshold, as teams that have already met the minimum weight limit can benefit from using the vests without penalty.
Bearman expressed his frustration, stating, “The whole cooling system is heavy. We’re trying to get the most performance out of the car. We’re not trying to make the car lighter to run the cooling vest.” He emphasized the need for fairness, as only some teams currently have the flexibility to use the cooling vests to their advantage.
Mercedes driver George Russell and Bearman’s team boss Ayao Komatsu have proposed lowering the temperature threshold to ensure a level playing field. Despite this, the FIA is content with the current 31C benchmark and is considering using race-day weather forecasts to determine the need for cooling vests, rather than relying on less accurate predictions made on Thursdays.
The FIA plans to make cooling vests mandatory for hot races starting from the next season, giving teams the remainder of the current season to fine-tune their systems and installations. The vests have received mixed reviews from drivers, with some, including Bearman and Russell, praising the improvements in the latest version.
As the debate rages on, the future of cooling vests in Formula 1 hangs in the balance, with drivers and teams calling for a fair and effective solution to combat the extreme heat conditions faced on the track.
