F1 drivers split on cooling vests as sweltering conditions await in Singapore
Carlos Sainz zips up a cooling vest before the F1 Sprint Race at Miami International Autodrome in May 2024. | IMAGN IMAGES / VIA REUTERS
Reuters
Oct 9, 2026
Singapore – Formula One drivers are split on whether to embrace cooling vest technology as they prepare to battle soaring temperatures at this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix, with four-time champion Max Verstappen leading the skeptics.
The FIA, the sport’s governing body, has already declared a heat hazard for the weekend at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, with temperatures forecast to exceed 31 degrees Celsius.
Despite being held at night, drivers can lose 3 kilograms of body weight over the course of the race. While teams must fit driver cooling systems such as liquid-cooled vests, drivers can opt out and take a ballast penalty instead.
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