F1 drivers are split over the use and importance of cooling vests as the series prepares for its fourth "heat hazard" race of 2026.
Driver comfort in hot climates became a talking point after the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, when several drivers experienced heat exhaustion symptoms. In response, the FIA and all F1 teams commissioned research, resulting in a standard cooling vest that circulates water through a tube system. When temperatures are expected to exceed 31C, the FIA declares a "heat hazard", requiring drivers to either use the vest or add 0.5kg of ballast. The original design has proven unpopular because of its limited effectiveness beyond a handful of laps and poor cockpit comfort. The FIA has therefore offered teams a $50,000 cost cap exemption for a cooling system that works for the entire race, plus a $75,000 allowance for improving the vest itself.
Mercedes driver George Russell sparked debate with an interview in The Times, calling on the governing body to do more to improve the regulatory framework. Mercedes chose not to pursue a bespoke system, feeling the allowance was insufficient and preferring to spend engineering resources on making its car quicker. Russell argued that the issue concerns comfort rather than outright safety, and that resources poured into sporadically used vests would not improve his W17 car's performance as Mercedes battles McLaren, Red Bull and Ferrari.
Few drivers agree with Russell. Some believe current systems are adequate for the most extreme cases, while others want them scrapped entirely. Red Bull's Isack Hadjar said in Singapore that the vest "should be banned, because it's supposed to be tough." Max Verstappen called it unnecessary, noting that the cables restrict movement and that it does not work for the full duration anyway. Alpine's Franco Colapinto said he does not find it comfortable.
Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli avoided the standard system after two bad experiences in his debut season, including a pump failure that left him with heat stroke. Instead, he has focused on heat acclimatisation through training, and says he would welcome a reliable improved solution once one is developed.
Source: Autosport F1 News · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing