After Max Verstappen, even Lewis Hamilton has expressed skepticism about the ‘cooling vest’ used in Singapore to combat cockpit heat.
Max and Lewis agree
In an unusual show of agreement, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen both criticized the now-famous ‘cooling vest’ provided by the FIA to help drivers cope with extreme temperatures inside the cockpit during Grands Prix where the air temperature exceeds 31°C with 70% humidity.
The Dutch champion had dismissed it as “useless.” “I don’t like those small tubes near the harness – the Red Bull driver had said – after 15-20 minutes the water becomes warm and the vest serves no purpose.” The FIA, however, is reportedly considering making this system mandatory, rather than optional, starting next season to reduce the risk of heatstroke during races in extreme weather conditions.
No mandates
On this topic, Lewis Hamilton expressed strong opposition to any obligation: “I don’t think it should ever be imposed on drivers – the seven-time world champion told journalists during the Singapore race weekend – they keep saying it’s a safety issue, but no driver has ever died from overheating during a race, except, of course, those involved in fiery accidents, so it’s stupid.”
“It should be our choice – the Ferrari driver emphasized – and I appreciate that they made it available. We will continue to work on and improve the system. I think it could potentially be useful in places with very high temperatures, but it should be a personal decision. It should never become a ‘you must wear it’ situation.”
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