# Mercedes Rejects FIA Driver Aid

> Mercedes defends skipping FIA driver cooling program despite heat issues.
- Title: Mercedes Rejects FIA Driver Aid · Motorsport | Shortify
- Summary: Mercedes defends skipping FIA driver cooling program despite heat issues. Mercedes skipped FIA driver cooling aid to prioritize performance, risking George…
- Keywords: mercedes, fia, george russell, driver aid, cost cap, performance, sports, cars, Rejects, Driver, Aid, Motorsport
- Source: Motorsport — https://motorsport.com/f1/news/mercedes-defends-its-controversial-decision-to-reject-a-crucial-fia-driver-upgrade/10862732
- Published: 2026-10-07T13:04:35+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: mercedes, fia, george russell, driver aid, f1, cost cap, performance, sports, cars
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Mercedes skipped FIA driver cooling aid to prioritize performance, risking George Russell's engine penalty and season impact.