From Motorsport · · 50s
Mercedes Rejects FIA Driver Aid
Mercedes defends skipping FIA driver cooling program despite heat issues.
In brief
Mercedes defends skipping FIA driver cooling program despite heat issues. Mercedes skipped FIA driver cooling aid to prioritize performance, risking George Russell's engine penalty and season impact. Originally reported by Motorsport.
Mercedes skips FIA driver aid
Mercedes opted out of FIA's liquid-cooled driver vest program despite extreme Asian heat conditions.
Cost cap decision
Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord said the cost cap forced a trade-off between performance and driver comfort.
George Russell's discomfort
George Russell reported stifling cockpit temperatures during the Southeast Asian double-header.
Performance over comfort
Mercedes prioritized lap time over physical relief, claiming drivers supported the strategy.
Russell's retirement
George Russell retired his car due to power unit issue after the race.
Engine penalty risk
Mercedes may face engine penalty for Russell's retirement, creating double whammy effect.
The takeaway
Mercedes skipped FIA driver cooling aid to prioritize performance, risking George Russell's engine penalty and season impact.
