# George Russell's Cooling Vest Debate

> Mercedes driver George Russell pushes FIA to mandate cooling vests after team rejects development.
- Title: George Russell's Cooling Vest Debate · Autosport | Shortify
- Summary: Mercedes driver George Russell pushes FIA to mandate cooling vests after team rejects development. George Russell wants FIA to step in and fund cooling vests…
- Keywords: george russell, mercedes, fia, cooling vest, cost cap exemption, formula 1, bahrain grand prix, malaysia, heat hazard, ferrari, williams racing, carlos sainz
- Source: Autosport — https://autosport.com/f1/news/whats-actually-going-on-with-george-russells-fia-cooling-vest-complaints/10861569
- Author: Filip Cleeren
- Published: 2026-10-03T13:05:07+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: george russell, mercedes, fia, cooling vest, cost cap exemption, formula 1, bahrain grand prix, malaysia, heat hazard, ferrari, williams racing, carlos sainz
## George Russell's Cooling Vest Concerns
Mercedes driver George Russell called for the FIA to step in and ensure cooling vests are mandatory during heat hazards.

> The FIA needs to step in
## Heat Hazard Background
The FIA declared a heat hazard when ambient temperatures exceed 31c during a grand prix weekend.
## Bahrain GP Heat Conditions
The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia is the third heat hazard of the 2026 season with a fourth expected in Singapore.
## Mercedes' Cooling Vest Decision
Mercedes chose not to develop a cooling vest due to performance trade-offs and limited heat conditions.
## FIA Cost Cap Exemption
Teams received up to 125,000 usd in cost cap exemptions to improve cooling vest effectiveness and comfort.
## Russell's Request for FIA Intervention
Russell urged the FIA to fund a universal cooling vest solution to protect drivers from heat hazards.
## Key takeaway

George Russell wants FIA to step in and fund cooling vests for drivers in extreme heat, as Mercedes chose not to develop a solution despite a cost cap exemption.