Analysis: How does the FIA intend to cope with racing in extreme temperatues?
Last weekend at the Lusail International Circuit, Formula 1 drivers were subject to difficult conditions amid sweltering heat in Qatar. Temperatures failed to drop under 30 degrees Celsius with the temperatures in the cockpit having neared 50 degrees Celsius.
Most of the drivers suffered from the extreme conditions with Alpine’s Esteban Ocon having revealed that he vomited in his helmet during the race. Williams driver Logan Sargeant was forced to retire from the race on Lap 41 after suffering from intense dehydration. In fact, the American driver battled flu-like symptoms which had been made even more severe due to the extreme heat during the race.
Fernando Alons was “burned” by his seat after the hydraluic lines and the electronic unit of his car developed unusually high temperatures. However, the main issue was the severe dehydration which meant that some drivers were on the brink of collapse after climbing out of their cars.
Formula One’s governing body, the FIA announced that they started an analysis into the situation in Qatar to provide recommendations for future situations of extreme weather conditions.
The 2024 Qatar Grand Prix is set to take place in December when temperatures are about six degrees Celsius lower than at the start of October. However, the FIA promised that they will ”take material action now to avoid a repeat of this scenario.”
The Paris-based governing body noted that the Losail race „had an impact on the wellbeing of the drivers. While being elite athletes, they should not be expected to compete under conditions that could jeopardise their health or safety.
„The safe operation of the cars is, at all times, the responsibility of the Competitors, however as with other matters relating to safety such as circuit infrastructure and car safety requirements, the FIA will take all reasonable measures to establish and communicate acceptable parameters in which Competitions are held.”
The FIA has revealed that a number of measures will be discussed at the upcoming medical commission meeting in Paris. Measures may include guidance for competitors.
Furthermore, the FIA will commence a research into modifications for more efficient airflow in the cockpit. This might be one of the key and effective measure to limit the strain on the drivers as many of them were seen to hold their hands high and open the visor of the helmets to get some fresh air in.
Speaking of the airflow inside the cockpit, George Russell said: "I opened my visor for the whole race and it was hot air, but it was better than no air. It was brutal.”
The governing body has also revealed that the calendar might be changed in order to run races with acceptable climatic conditions.
The FIA could also launch a research into the way of how other series, such as cross-country events run in extreme climates, which could also provide potential changes to circuit events.
Furthermore, the FIA has announced that they will ensure that their technical, safety and medical departments will work in closer cooperation with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem set to facilitate this process.
