Singapore Grand Prix Declared 'Heat Hazard' in Formula 1 History

Singapore, Oct 2 (AP) — This week, the Singapore Grand Prix has been officially labeled a “heat hazard,” marking the first application of this rule in Formula 1 history. This development mandates that cars must be equipped with cooling systems. This decision was made by Race Director Rui Marques on Thursday, ahead of the weekend when temperatures are expected to exceed 31°C (88°F).

The official forecast on the F1 website predicts a temperature of 32°C on Saturday, rising to 33°C by Sunday. In anticipation of these conditions, the FIA, motorsport's governing body, has introduced new requirements for 2025. These include the use of cooling vests designed for drivers, which function by circulating fluid through a network of tubes within the garment.

While participating drivers are not obligated to don the cooling vests, they are prohibited from reducing weight by omitting the system. Furthermore, any driver opting not to wear the vest must ensure their vehicle is equipped with some form of cooling system equipment, supplemented with ballast to balance the weight of the vest.

The FIA's emphasis on cooling technology for drivers gained momentum after the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, where multiple drivers required medical attention due to heat-induced illness.

Singapore poses a unique challenge for F1 drivers, given the high temperatures and humidity of its street circuit, despite the race being held at nighttime. In previous races, drivers have reported that the heat causes their in-car hydration systems to dispense water at uncomfortably high temperatures, likening it to drinking hot tea. (AP)

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