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This weekend's Austrian Grand Prix has been officially classified as a heat-hazard race by Formula 1's governing body, the FIA, as Europe continues to experience soaring temperatures during an ongoing heatwave.
The FIA applies the heat-hazard designation whenever forecasts indicate temperatures will rise above 31 degrees Celsius while cars are on track. The measure is designed to help protect drivers from extreme heat, which can become a serious challenge during a race weekend.
Under the regulations, drivers are permitted to use a cooling system that circulates chilled liquid, such as glycol, through tubes embedded in a fire-resistant garment worn beneath their racing suits. The equipment is intended to help reduce body temperature while competing in demanding conditions.
Although the cooling vest is available to all drivers, its use remains optional. Competitors who decide not to wear it must add 5 kilograms of ballast to their car. The rule ensures that drivers who skip the cooling equipment do not gain a performance advantage from carrying less weight.
Austria becomes the first Formula 1 race of the 2025 season to receive the heat-hazard classification. The decision comes as record-breaking temperatures are recorded across several European countries, including the United Kingdom.
The FIA introduced the rule last season after concerns over driver welfare in extreme conditions. Both the Singapore and United States Grands Prix were run under the heat-hazard designation in 2024.
Despite the intended benefits, opinions among drivers remain divided. Some competitors have complained that the cooling systems can be uncomfortable and difficult to manage inside the cramped cockpit. Others have noted that the coolant can warm up if the supply is depleted before the end of a race, making the system far less effective.
Temperatures inside an F1 cockpit can exceed 40 degrees Celsius. Drivers must also contend with multiple layers of fireproof clothing, as well as a balaclava and helmet, making heat management a significant concern.
Red Bull rookie Isack Hadjar admitted he is not a fan of the cooling vest.
"I really don't like it. There are too many tubes and too many things in the cockpit," he said. "It works really well for about 10 minutes and then it gets warm again. I have never reached a point where I truly needed it."
McLaren driver Oscar Piastri, however, is expected to use the system this weekend. While acknowledging that technical failures can make conditions worse, he believes the vest offers some benefit when functioning properly.
"If it cools you down even a little, you might as well use it," Piastri said.
