Austrian GP declared heat-hazard race amid European heatwave
The Austrian Grand Prix becomes the first Formula 1 race this year to receive a heat-hazard designation as a heatwave sets record temperatures across Europe.
The Austrian Grand Prix has been declared a heat-hazard race, the first Formula 1 event to receive that designation this year. The decision comes amid a severe heatwave across Europe, which is breaking temperature records in several countries, including the United Kingdom.
The heat-hazard rule was first introduced last season, applied to the Singapore and United States Grands Prix. Some drivers prefer not to use the cooling kit provided due to discomfort and past issues where the coolant ran out before race completion. When the coolant is depleted, it reaches car temperature, which is significantly higher than the ambient air.
Cockpit temperatures in an F1 car can exceed 40 degrees Celsius, and drivers wear multiple layers of fireproof clothing along with a balaclava and helmet. Overheating is a serious concern for driver safety and performance.
