{"id":2187046,"date":"2026-10-08T14:41:02","date_gmt":"2026-10-08T11:41:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2187046"},"modified":"2026-10-08T14:41:02","modified_gmt":"2026-10-08T11:41:02","slug":"f1-drivers-want-cooling-vests-banned-as-max-verstappen-claims-i-dont-need-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2187046","title":{"rendered":"F1 drivers want cooling vests banned as Max Verstappen claims \u201cI don\u2019t need it\u201d"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;]<\/p>\n<article>\n<header id=\"lbs-article\" class=\"article header article-header section layout layout--article-header\">\n<div class=\"col headline\">\n<div>\n<h1>F1 drivers want cooling vests banned as Max Verstappen claims \u201cI don\u2019t need it\u201d<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>F1 cooling vests are dividing opinion among drivers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section two-column\">\n<div class=\"col article-info\">\n<div>\n<address> Lewis Larkam <\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><time datetime=\"2026-10-08T15:41:02+01:00\">08 Oct 2026<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col article-actions\">\n<div class=\"block block-better-social-sharing-buttons block-social-sharing-buttons-block\">\n<div class=\"social-sharing-buttons\"><span class=\"ssb-title\"> Share<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div id=\"lbs-content\" class=\"content wide-two-column-sticky section layout layout--wide-two-column-sticky\">\n<div class=\"col first-column\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Max Verstappen is not a fan of the cooling vests<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-preferred-source\">\n<aside>\n<div class=\"preferred-source\">\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div>  Prefer Crash.Net on Google <\/div>\n<div> See our stories more often<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"button\">  Add <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Formula 1 drivers have highlighted ongoing problems with their cooling vests, with some going as far as to call for the device to be banned altogether.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>When races are declared heat hazard events, F1 teams are allowed to fit their cars with cooling systems that pump cool liquid through a vest worn by the driver.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The safety regulation is not mandatory and drivers can decide not to wear the cooling vests, though they will have to run with extra ballast to ensure a competitive advantage is not gained.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>An F1 heat hazard has been declared for the fourth time this season, and second weekend in a row, at the Singapore Grand Prix, with temperatures forecast to exceed 31C at some point during the race.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Singapore has become the fourth race this season to be declared a &#8216;heat hazard&#8217;<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Despite this, several drivers will not wear the cooling vests, citing comfort and reliability concerns.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;For me, it&#8217;s not needed,\u201d Verstappen told reporters in Singapore. \u201cYes, it&#8217;s hot, but it&#8217;s not sauna. And with this cooling vest, you have these stupid cables in your car, so it&#8217;s just limiting your movement as well.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Even if it would work for one and a half hours, like cool, cool, I don&#8217;t need it. It doesn&#8217;t work anyway for one and a half hours. I&#8217;ve never had it in any category that has worked for one and a half hours.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Verstappen\u2019s Red Bull team-mate Isack Hadjar made his thoughts clear when asked for his stance on the cooling aid debate.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think it should be banned. Because it&#8217;s supposed to be tough,\u201d the 21-year-old Frenchman stated.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Mercedes prioritise car performance\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Antonelli wore a more old-school approach at the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>George Russell made headlines in Malaysia last weekend when he revealed that Mercedes has decided against running the system to prioritise resources into its car development.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>F1\u2019s governing body has granted teams an allowance under the cost cap of \u00a338,000 if they can make a system that keeps the liquid cool for an entire grand prix, and a further \u00a357,000 if they can make the top comfortable.<\/p>\n<p>But two-time world champion Fernando Alonso dismissed the notion that the FIA should step in and do more to ensure the drivers have effective cooling systems.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI don&#8217;t think it&#8217;s an FIA duty to push for that,\u201d the Aston Martin driver said. \u201cI think the regulation is already there. They declare the temperature already, we have today.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cSo it&#8217;s up to the teams, the drivers&#8217; preferences. You can feel even uncomfortable with the system on or wearing it and driving the car. So it cannot be obliged by anyone. So it&#8217;s a team-driver choice, and the FIA is just monitoring the situation, probably.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Cooling vests beset with problems\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>The cooling vests have been criticised for being uncomfortable and unreliable<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Ferrari\u2019s Charles Leclerc said improvements can be made to the system.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Ideally, if I can have an even better cooling vest, I will always take it. Let&#8217;s say that for 15-20 laps it works pretty well,&#8221; the Monegasque added.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBut then after, for the rest of the race, you are quite warm, just like you are without the cooling vest. So at least I&#8217;m getting 15-20 laps, and I&#8217;m already grateful of that.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;It&#8217;s not that I feel like every driver on the grid is not physically fit to do a whole race.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read Also<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-8f4a650f3698baec06bc4d86714b97b2018bd4fc37037dc3a6006709170267be\">\n<div class=\"item-list\">\n<ul>\n<li>George Russell pushed for &#8220;no-brainer&#8221; divided Mercedes F1 car strategy<\/li>\n<li>When is Max Verstappen\u2019s engineer leaving Red Bull? Zak Brown hints it could be sooner than expected<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;However, to be at your 100% at the end of a race, or from the middle of the race here, where you lose so much water and you are dehydrated, for sure we leave something on the table there.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Alpine\u2019s Franco Colapinto was fairly dismissive of the cooling vests.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI think it&#8217;s hot, but it&#8217;s been hot for the history of the sport,\u201d Colapinto said. &#8220;So again, I think it&#8217;s something good to be able to choose, to have it as an option.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cPersonally, I don&#8217;t like it. I don&#8217;t feel it&#8217;s comfortable. I don&#8217;t like how it feels, and yeah, I just don&#8217;t wear it. But again, it&#8217;s good to have the option to wear it or not, depending on what you prefer.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Esteban Ocon also pointed out flaws with the problematic driver cooling aide, though like Leclerc, he stressed there are clear performance benefits associated with being at the right temperature.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think it&#8217;s been a massive performance gain for the physical aspect of things. Of course, it hasn&#8217;t worked the whole race since we introduced the system,\u201d the outgoing Haas driver said.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt lasts for like 40 minutes, and then it&#8217;s just hot fluid that keeps going on because it&#8217;s so hot in the car. It&#8217;s already good that we have something, to be honest, because I&#8217;ve raced my whole career before that without.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFernando must have. I&#8217;ve seen videos of him drinking a Coke at the end of the race, exhausted from Bahrain when it was in the day, and nobody said that we should do a cooling system back then.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSo already to have something is a step better. Of course, you want to make it perfect, you want to make it bulletproof, but yeah, it&#8217;s up to the teams to do it better if they want to. But I don&#8217;t think everybody realises how much better it is for an athlete to be at the right temperature to perform, for sure.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-campaign-monitor\">\n<h2>Sign up for the Crash F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-field-keywords block-layout-builder\">\n<h2>Tags:<\/h2>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">F1<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Max Verstappen<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Isack Hadjar<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Red Bull<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">George Russell<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Mercedes<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-next-prev\">\n<div class=\"next-prev-pager contextual-region\">\n<div class=\"items\">\n<div class=\"item prev\">\n<h3> Previous <span>Article<\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_plain\">\n<div class=\"content\"> George Russell pushed for &#8220;no-brainer&#8221; divided Mercedes F1 car strategy <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"item next\">\n<h3> Next <span>Article<\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_plain\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Valtteri Bottas\u2019 \u2018mind started to play games\u2019 in mammoth Singapore bike ride <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-author-block block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<div class=\"author-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-9117e7dc7872f0b396663d5679d6db904ce02442ccdd8335700f8918bf5aad0b\">\n<div class=\"card user default\">\n<div class=\"image\"> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=270&amp;format=webp 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=180&amp;format=webp 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=90&amp;format=webp 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div class=\"header\">\n<div class=\"text\">\n<div class=\"name\">Lewis Larkam<\/div>\n<div class=\"role\">F1 Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p>Lewis regularly attends Grands Prix for Crash.net around the world. Often reporting on the action from the ground, Lewis tells the stories of the people who matter in the sport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"views-element-container block block-views-blockrelated-content-related-content-block\">\n<h3>Related Articles<\/h3>\n<div class=\"grid-view grid-2 js-view-dom-id-012a8a875f45819ec90e9b20a84ef455833fc111c235375339d9b20040603749\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Christian Horner\u2019s staggering eight-figure Red Bull F1 payout revealed<\/p><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1342510_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Christian Horner was given an eye-watering payout by Red Bull\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Max 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upgrade confusion<\/p><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442261_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Mercedes has been left confused about its upgraded W17\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Christian Horner sends message in response to Red Bull\u2019s landmark win<\/p><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-06\/si202502260249.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Horner continues to be linked with a return to F1\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Jacques Villeneuve highlights the \u2018big difference\u2019 between Max Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli<\/p><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442375_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Max Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col second-column\">\n<div class=\"sticky\">\n<div class=\"component-card-default block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<h2>Latest News<\/h2>\n<div class=\"component-blocks-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-cdb81231357c7333c8013e7a1aa51f50a7033f0ec9a5e36de448122993b75023\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>F1 2026 Singapore Grand Prix: Start time and full weekend schedule<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791529800\"> 1m ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377357_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377357_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377357_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Lewis Hamilton details \u201cinsane\u201d Ferrari F40 journey in new video<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791473226\"> 15h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-09\/xpb_1431907_hires_0.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-09\/xpb_1431907_hires_0.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-09\/xpb_1431907_hires_0.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Valtteri Bottas\u2019 \u2018mind started to play games\u2019 in mammoth Singapore bike ride<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791471645\"> 16h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1440193_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1440193_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1440193_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>F1 drivers want cooling vests banned as Max Verstappen claims \u201cI don\u2019t need it\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791470462\"> 16h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>George Russell pushed for &#8220;no-brainer&#8221; divided Mercedes F1 car strategy<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791466538\"> 17h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442717_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442717_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442717_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"main-lists block block-campaign-monitor\">\n<h2>Sign up for the Crash F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal\">\n<p>Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"component-card-default block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<h2>More News<\/h2>\n<div class=\"component-blocks-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-00944ffcaa85a62ee3607338ee9915d04c9b7c04a23bb1b3dfed23edc6cf7c27\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Lewis Hamilton hits back at Ferrari critics after strategy blunder: \u201cMcLaren made the same mistake\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791464228\"> 18h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442608_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442608_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442608_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Esteban Ocon\u2019s most likely 2027 destination after F1 exit<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791461303\"> 19h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442638_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442638_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442638_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Lando Norris hopeful McLaren has found fix for mystery car speed loss<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791456946\"> 20h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442673_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442673_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442673_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Fernando Alonso shuts down Dakar Rally return \u201crumours\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791454128\"> 21h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1441329_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1441329_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1441329_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Williams launches \u00a31m legal action after historic F1 car goes missing<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1791449833\"> 22h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_2387_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_2387_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_2387_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>F1 cooling vests are dividing opinion among drivers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Formula 1 drivers have highlighted ongoing problems with their cooling vests, with some going as far as to call for the device to be banned altogether.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>When races are declared heat hazard events, F1 teams are allowed to fit their cars with cooling systems that pump cool liquid through a vest worn by the driver.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The safety regulation is not mandatory and drivers can decide not to wear the cooling vests, though they will have to run with extra ballast to ensure a competitive advantage is not gained.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>An F1 heat hazard has been declared for the fourth time this season, and second weekend in a row, at the Singapore Grand Prix, with temperatures forecast to exceed 31C at some point during the race.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Singapore has become the fourth race this season to be declared a &#8216;heat hazard&#8217;<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Despite this, several drivers will not wear the cooling vests, citing comfort and reliability concerns.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;For me, it&#8217;s not needed,\u201d Verstappen told reporters in Singapore. \u201cYes, it&#8217;s hot, but it&#8217;s not sauna. And with this cooling vest, you have these stupid cables in your car, so it&#8217;s just limiting your movement as well.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Even if it would work for one and a half hours, like cool, cool, I don&#8217;t need it. It doesn&#8217;t work anyway for one and a half hours. I&#8217;ve never had it in any category that has worked for one and a half hours.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Verstappen\u2019s Red Bull team-mate Isack Hadjar made his thoughts clear when asked for his stance on the cooling aid debate.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think it should be banned. Because it&#8217;s supposed to be tough,\u201d the 21-year-old Frenchman stated.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Mercedes prioritise car performance\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Antonelli wore a more old-school approach at the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>George Russell made headlines in Malaysia last weekend when he revealed that Mercedes has decided against running the system to prioritise resources into its car development.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>F1\u2019s governing body has granted teams an allowance under the cost cap of \u00a338,000 if they can make a system that keeps the liquid cool for an entire grand prix, and a further \u00a357,000 if they can make the top comfortable.<\/p>\n<p>But two-time world champion Fernando Alonso dismissed the notion that the FIA should step in and do more to ensure the drivers have effective cooling systems.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI don&#8217;t think it&#8217;s an FIA duty to push for that,\u201d the Aston Martin driver said. \u201cI think the regulation is already there. They declare the temperature already, we have today.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cSo it&#8217;s up to the teams, the drivers&#8217; preferences. You can feel even uncomfortable with the system on or wearing it and driving the car. So it cannot be obliged by anyone. So it&#8217;s a team-driver choice, and the FIA is just monitoring the situation, probably.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Cooling vests beset with problems\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>The cooling vests have been criticised for being uncomfortable and unreliable<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Ferrari\u2019s Charles Leclerc said improvements can be made to the system.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Ideally, if I can have an even better cooling vest, I will always take it. Let&#8217;s say that for 15-20 laps it works pretty well,&#8221; the Monegasque added.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBut then after, for the rest of the race, you are quite warm, just like you are without the cooling vest. So at least I&#8217;m getting 15-20 laps, and I&#8217;m already grateful of that.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;It&#8217;s not that I feel like every driver on the grid is not physically fit to do a whole race.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read Also<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-8f4a650f3698baec06bc4d86714b97b2018bd4fc37037dc3a6006709170267be\">\n<div class=\"item-list\">\n<ul>\n<li>George Russell pushed for &#8220;no-brainer&#8221; divided Mercedes F1 car strategy<\/li>\n<li>When is Max Verstappen\u2019s engineer leaving Red Bull? Zak Brown hints it could be sooner than expected<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;However, to be at your 100% at the end of a race, or from the middle of the race here, where you lose so much water and you are dehydrated, for sure we leave something on the table there.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Alpine\u2019s Franco Colapinto was fairly dismissive of the cooling vests.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI think it&#8217;s hot, but it&#8217;s been hot for the history of the sport,\u201d Colapinto said. &#8220;So again, I think it&#8217;s something good to be able to choose, to have it as an option.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cPersonally, I don&#8217;t like it. I don&#8217;t feel it&#8217;s comfortable. I don&#8217;t like how it feels, and yeah, I just don&#8217;t wear it. But again, it&#8217;s good to have the option to wear it or not, depending on what you prefer.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Esteban Ocon also pointed out flaws with the problematic driver cooling aide, though like Leclerc, he stressed there are clear performance benefits associated with being at the right temperature.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think it&#8217;s been a massive performance gain for the physical aspect of things. Of course, it hasn&#8217;t worked the whole race since we introduced the system,\u201d the outgoing Haas driver said.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt lasts for like 40 minutes, and then it&#8217;s just hot fluid that keeps going on because it&#8217;s so hot in the car. It&#8217;s already good that we have something, to be honest, because I&#8217;ve raced my whole career before that without.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFernando must have. I&#8217;ve seen videos of him drinking a Coke at the end of the race, exhausted from Bahrain when it was in the day, and nobody said that we should do a cooling system back then.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSo already to have something is a step better. Of course, you want to make it perfect, you want to make it bulletproof, but yeah, it&#8217;s up to the teams to do it better if they want to. But I don&#8217;t think everybody realises how much better it is for an athlete to be at the right temperature to perform, for sure.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-campaign-monitor\">\n<h2>Sign up for the Crash F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Formula 1 drivers have highlighted ongoing problems with their cooling vests, with some going as far as to call for the device to be banned altogether.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>When races are declared heat hazard events, F1 teams are allowed to fit their cars with cooling systems that pump cool liquid through a vest worn by the driver.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The safety regulation is not mandatory and drivers can decide not to wear the cooling vests, though they will have to run with extra ballast to ensure a competitive advantage is not gained.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>An F1 heat hazard has been declared for the fourth time this season, and second weekend in a row, at the Singapore Grand Prix, with temperatures forecast to exceed 31C at some point during the race.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1377667_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Singapore has become the fourth race this season to be declared a &#8216;heat hazard&#8217;<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Despite this, several drivers will not wear the cooling vests, citing comfort and reliability concerns.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;For me, it&#8217;s not needed,\u201d Verstappen told reporters in Singapore. \u201cYes, it&#8217;s hot, but it&#8217;s not sauna. And with this cooling vest, you have these stupid cables in your car, so it&#8217;s just limiting your movement as well.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Even if it would work for one and a half hours, like cool, cool, I don&#8217;t need it. It doesn&#8217;t work anyway for one and a half hours. I&#8217;ve never had it in any category that has worked for one and a half hours.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Verstappen\u2019s Red Bull team-mate Isack Hadjar made his thoughts clear when asked for his stance on the cooling aid debate.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think it should be banned. Because it&#8217;s supposed to be tough,\u201d the 21-year-old Frenchman stated.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Mercedes prioritise car performance\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419318_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Antonelli wore a more old-school approach at the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>George Russell made headlines in Malaysia last weekend when he revealed that Mercedes has decided against running the system to prioritise resources into its car development.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>F1\u2019s governing body has granted teams an allowance under the cost cap of \u00a338,000 if they can make a system that keeps the liquid cool for an entire grand prix, and a further \u00a357,000 if they can make the top comfortable.<\/p>\n<p>But two-time world champion Fernando Alonso dismissed the notion that the FIA should step in and do more to ensure the drivers have effective cooling systems.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI don&#8217;t think it&#8217;s an FIA duty to push for that,\u201d the Aston Martin driver said. \u201cI think the regulation is already there. They declare the temperature already, we have today.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cSo it&#8217;s up to the teams, the drivers&#8217; preferences. You can feel even uncomfortable with the system on or wearing it and driving the car. So it cannot be obliged by anyone. So it&#8217;s a team-driver choice, and the FIA is just monitoring the situation, probably.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Cooling vests beset with problems\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1419324_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>The cooling vests have been criticised for being uncomfortable and unreliable<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Ferrari\u2019s Charles Leclerc said improvements can be made to the system.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Ideally, if I can have an even better cooling vest, I will always take it. Let&#8217;s say that for 15-20 laps it works pretty well,&#8221; the Monegasque added.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBut then after, for the rest of the race, you are quite warm, just like you are without the cooling vest. So at least I&#8217;m getting 15-20 laps, and I&#8217;m already grateful of that.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;It&#8217;s not that I feel like every driver on the grid is not physically fit to do a whole race.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read Also<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-8f4a650f3698baec06bc4d86714b97b2018bd4fc37037dc3a6006709170267be\">\n<div class=\"item-list\">\n<ul>\n<li>George Russell pushed for &#8220;no-brainer&#8221; divided Mercedes F1 car strategy<\/li>\n<li>When is Max Verstappen\u2019s engineer leaving Red Bull? Zak Brown hints it could be sooner than expected<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;However, to be at your 100% at the end of a race, or from the middle of the race here, where you lose so much water and you are dehydrated, for sure we leave something on the table there.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Alpine\u2019s Franco Colapinto was fairly dismissive of the cooling vests.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI think it&#8217;s hot, but it&#8217;s been hot for the history of the sport,\u201d Colapinto said. &#8220;So again, I think it&#8217;s something good to be able to choose, to have it as an option.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cPersonally, I don&#8217;t like it. I don&#8217;t feel it&#8217;s comfortable. I don&#8217;t like how it feels, and yeah, I just don&#8217;t wear it. But again, it&#8217;s good to have the option to wear it or not, depending on what you prefer.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Esteban Ocon also pointed out flaws with the problematic driver cooling aide, though like Leclerc, he stressed there are clear performance benefits associated with being at the right temperature.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think it&#8217;s been a massive performance gain for the physical aspect of things. Of course, it hasn&#8217;t worked the whole race since we introduced the system,\u201d the outgoing Haas driver said.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt lasts for like 40 minutes, and then it&#8217;s just hot fluid that keeps going on because it&#8217;s so hot in the car. It&#8217;s already good that we have something, to be honest, because I&#8217;ve raced my whole career before that without.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFernando must have. I&#8217;ve seen videos of him drinking a Coke at the end of the race, exhausted from Bahrain when it was in the day, and nobody said that we should do a cooling system back then.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSo already to have something is a step better. Of course, you want to make it perfect, you want to make it bulletproof, but yeah, it&#8217;s up to the teams to do it better if they want to. But I don&#8217;t think everybody realises how much better it is for an athlete to be at the right temperature to perform, for sure.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-campaign-monitor\">\n<h2>Sign up for the Crash F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/crash.net\/f1\/news\/1106625\/1\/f1-drivers-want-cooling-vests-banned-max-verstappen-claims-i-dont-need-it&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-10\/xpb_1442759_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;] F1 drivers want cooling vests banned as Max Verstappen claims \u201cI don\u2019t need it\u201d F1 cooling vests are dividing opinion among drivers. Lewis Larkam 08 Oct 2026 Share Max Verstappen is not a fan of the cooling vests Prefer Crash.Net on Google See our stories more often Add Formula 1 drivers have [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[47,226],"class_list":["post-2187046","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crash-net","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2187046","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2187046"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2187046\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2187046"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2187046"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2187046"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}