F1 drivers split on cooling vests

F1 drivers remain divided over whether cooling vests should be banned or improved.

Heat hazard race

The series faces its fourth heat hazard race of 2026 after drivers experienced heat exhaustion symptoms at the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix.

FIA response

The FIA commissioned research ending with a standard cooling vest that circulates water through a tube system for temperatures exceeding 31c.

Heat hazard rule

When temperatures exceed 31c, the FIA declares a heat hazard forcing drivers to use the vest or add 0.5kg of ballast to the car.

Cost cap for teams

Teams can improve the cooling vest design with a 50,000 usd cost cap exemption for full race duration or 75,000 usd for comfort and effectiveness.

George Russell's stance

Mercedes driver George Russell called for the FIA to step in and improve the regulatory framework for cooling vests.

Isack Hadjar's stance

Red Bull Racing driver Isack Hadjar said cooling vests should be banned because they are supposed to be tough.

“I think it should be banned, because it's supposed to be tough”

Max Verstappen's stance

Max Verstappen stated cooling vests are unnecessary and limit driver movement with their cables.

“For me it's not needed. Yes it's hot, but it's not a sauna, and with this cooling vest you have these stupid cables in your car, so it's just limiting your movement as well”

Kimi Antonelli's experience

Kimi Antonelli had two bad experiences with the cooling vest causing heat stroke during his debut campaign.

“The first time it didn't work as long as we hoped for. The second time, the pump system failed and I did the whole session with the system pumping the water at 50 degrees. I suffered a heat stroke after the session, so it wasn't very pleasant”