Oct.5 (GMM) Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have each criticised strikes by the FIA to make the cockpit cooling vest obligatory in Formulation 1’s new “warmth hazard” races.
This weekend’s Singapore GP is the primary to obtain the official warmth classification, permitting the FIA to require particular cooling measures. For 2025 the vest stays optionally available, although drivers who select to not put on it should carry ballast to equalise weight.
Verstappen stated he resents the push to make it obligatory.
“I’m not intending to make use of it as a result of I really feel like this must be a driver alternative,” he advised Viaplay. “This season it’s, sure, however subsequent season it’s not in the meanwhile. And I completely disagree with that.
“It’s a bit ridiculous. In the end, it’s about your individual security and the way you’re feeling with it.”
The Dutchman stated the vest is uncomfortable and ineffective. “The warmth doesn’t hassle me that a lot, and it will get heat anyway. Somewhat sweating is okay, and the vest will get heat after 15 to twenty minutes anyway, so it’s ineffective,” he added.
Verstappen additionally rejected the FIA’s argument that the measure improves security. “However then we are able to discuss a number of stuff that may be improved on security – together with pit entries in sure locations. I feel that has a bit extra precedence than a vest within the automotive as a result of I don’t prefer it.”
Fellow a number of world champion Hamilton backed Verstappen’s stance. “For my part, it’s best to by no means drive this on a driver,” stated the Ferrari driver.
“They preserve saying it’s a security measure, however no driver has ever died from overheating. Besides, in fact, when the automobiles caught fireplace again then,” he laughed.
“It’s beginning to get ridiculous. This must be our alternative whether or not or to not use it. I admire that they’ve made it accessible, and we’re making an attempt to enhance it. It might probably be useful in highly regarded conditions.
“Nevertheless, it ought to by no means be obligatory to put on that vest.”
Hamilton admitted he “may” put on the vest on Sunday, not like his former Mercedes teammate George Russell, who confirmed he may have the vest on when he begins from pole.
Championship chief Oscar Piastri stated he stays undecided. “I feel the initiative is nice, however like Max stated, having the selection to make use of it or not is necessary as a result of there are advantages and drawbacks,” he stated.
