Formula 1 is considering making changes after drivers suffered heat-related ailments during the Qatar Grand Prix.
The incident: Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll reported dizziness and near loss of consciousness, Alpine’s Esteban Ocon vomited during the race, and Williams’ drivers Alexander Albon and Logan Sargeant suffered from acute heat exposure and intense dehydration, respectively.
* High temperatures in Qatar and the demanding physical conditions of Formula 1 exacerbated the health issues.
Reaction from the governing body: The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is considering steps to better prepare drivers for rising temperatures.
* The FIA emphasized that drivers, despite being elite athletes, should not have to compete in conditions that might risk their health or safety.
* The organization is analyzing the race and contemplating measures such as additional guidance to competitors, improvements in cockpit airflow, and changes to the race calendar in line with acceptable weather conditions.
By the numbers: Mercedes driver George Russell reported that the temperature in his car’s cockpit exceeded 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).
* Less extreme temperatures are anticipated for next year’s Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix, scheduled for November 29 through December 1.
What’s next: The FIA plans to discuss these potential steps at its upcoming medical commission meeting in Paris. The Qatar Grand Prix ended with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen winning, followed by McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.
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