Oct.5 (GMM) Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have each criticised strikes by the FIA to make the cockpit cooling vest obligatory in Components 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 elective, although drivers who select to not put on it should carry ballast to equalise weight.
Verstappen mentioned he resents the push to make it necessary.
“I’m not intending to make use of it as a result of I really feel like this must be a driver alternative,” he informed Viaplay. “This season it’s, sure, however subsequent season it’s not in the mean time. And I completely disagree with that.
“It’s a bit ridiculous. Finally, it’s about your individual security and the way you’re feeling with it.”
The Dutchman mentioned the vest is uncomfortable and ineffective. “The warmth doesn’t trouble 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 will discuss lots 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, you must by no means power this on a driver,” mentioned the Ferrari driver.
“They preserve saying it’s a security measure, however no driver has ever died from overheating. Besides, after all, when the vehicles 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 respect that they’ve made it obtainable, and we’re making an attempt to enhance it. It might probably be useful in extremely popular conditions.
“Nevertheless, it ought to by no means be necessary to put on that vest.”
Hamilton admitted he “may” put on the vest on Sunday, in contrast to his former Mercedes teammate George Russell, who confirmed he could have the vest on when he begins from pole.
Championship chief Oscar Piastri mentioned he stays undecided. “I feel the initiative is nice, however like Max mentioned, having the selection to make use of it or not is essential as a result of there are advantages and disadvantages,” he mentioned.
