This week’s Singapore Grand Prix has officially been classified as a “heat hazard,” requiring cars to be fitted with cooling systems — though drivers are not obliged to use them. It marks the first time the regulation has been enforced in Formula 1.
Race director Rui Marques made the call on Thursday, with forecasts predicting temperatures above 31°C (88°F) throughout the weekend. According to F1’s own weather outlook, Saturday could reach 32°C, climbing to 33°C on Sunday — with cockpit conditions soaring far higher.
New FIA rules for 2025 introduced cooling vests that circulate chilled fluid through a network of tubes. Mercedes driver George Russell, who has tested the system before, welcomed the option:
“It’s good, and when you’re racing in 90% humidity with cockpits approaching 60 degrees, it’s like a sauna inside the car,” he explained.
However, Russell noted the vest can dig uncomfortably into his ribs at high speeds. Still recovering from illness at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, he admitted he’s not yet “100%.”
“If this were any other race, I wouldn’t be worried,” he added. “But Singapore is Singapore — it brings obvious challenges. I’m sure it’ll be fine, but Sunday won’t be easy.”
