The FIA has activated its heat hazard protocol for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza, with temperatures forecast to exceed 31°C during the weekend. To protect drivers in the extreme conditions, they will be able to choose between using the Formula 1 driver cooling system or, if they prefer not to wear it, carrying the corresponding 0.5kg of ballast in the car.
The heatwave affecting Italy has inevitably reached Formula 1 as well. For the second time this season, after Austria, the FIA has issued a heat alert, bringing additional driver-cooling measures into effect ahead of a potentially demanding weekend at the Temple of Speed.
FIA activates Monza heat hazard protocol
Forecasts for Monza indicate temperatures above 30°C throughout the weekend, prompting the FIA to implement its high-temperature procedure. The governing body confirmed that the threshold for declaring a Heat Hazard is expected to be reached during the Italian Grand Prix.
In its official communication, the FIA stated: “In accordance with Article B1.5.10 of the FIA F1 Regulations, having received a forecast from the Official Weather Service that the Heat Index will exceed 31.0°C at some point during the Race at this Event, a Heat Hazard is declared.”
The extreme-weather measures form part of Formula 1’s response to the difficult conditions experienced at the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix. On that occasion, a combination of high temperatures and humidity left several drivers struggling physically, with some requiring medical attention after the race.
The Italian Grand Prix therefore presents another demanding element alongside the usual sporting and technical challenges of Monza. Ferrari, for example, also arrives at its home event assessing a number of changes to the SF-26, with Charles Leclerc evaluating Ferrari’s engine and floor upgrades for Monza.
How the Formula 1 driver cooling system works
Following the events in Qatar, the FIA introduced a system designed to reduce temperatures inside the cockpit and help drivers manage extreme heat. The equipment uses a small unit fitted to the car to keep a liquid cold before circulating it through tubes incorporated into the driver’s fireproof undershirt.
Installation has become easier in 2026 thanks to changes introduced as part of Formula 1’s major regulatory overhaul. The system no longer requires an external battery and is instead connected directly to the car’s electrical system.
Even with that simplification, fitting the equipment still requires preparation and organisation. That is why the FIA must give teams advance notice on Thursday rather than waiting until Sunday to decide whether the heat protocol should be activated.
According to forecasts supplied by the Federation’s official weather provider, the 31°C threshold is expected to be exceeded on both Saturday and Sunday, with ambient temperatures potentially reaching around 33°C. Inside a Formula 1 cockpit, temperatures will inevitably be higher still.
Why some F1 drivers still do not want to use cooling vests
Not every driver has been convinced by the system. Some have reported discomfort caused by pressure points where the cooling tubes are compressed between the driver and the seat.
Manufacturers of the cooling garments are already studying alternative layouts, including moving the tubes towards areas such as the shoulders and legs. Other drivers simply believe the system does not provide enough benefit to justify wearing it.
As a result, drivers will be allowed to choose. They can either wear the cooling garment or have the corresponding 0.5kg of ballast added to their car instead.
The FIA had considered making cooling vests compulsory from this season, but concerns from drivers over comfort and effectiveness led to their use remaining optional. The approach creates a compromise between ensuring teams are prepared for extreme conditions and allowing individual drivers to decide whether the system works for them.
Monza set for a particularly hot Italian Grand Prix weekend
Outside the cockpit, more familiar methods of dealing with the heat will also be visible. Drivers have long used vests filled with dry ice to reduce their body temperature before climbing into the car.
An Adidas jacket featuring an internal ventilation system will also be used to help drivers sponsored by the brand manage the conditions more effectively while they are outside the car.
The high temperatures will not only affect the competitors. Fans attending Monza are also being encouraged to remain in the shade whenever possible and to stay properly hydrated throughout the day.
The heat alert adds another variable to a weekend in which car performance will already be closely scrutinised. Monza’s characteristics could also offer Ferrari an important opportunity, with Ralf Schumacher explaining why Ferrari could be stronger at the Italian Grand Prix.
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