The scorching heat of the previous year’s October Qatar Grand Prix caused multiple health concerns for the drivers, with temperatures surpassing 30°C even during the night sessions.
Logan Sargeant withdrew from the race on Sunday due to heatstroke, Esteban Ocon puked in his helmet, and other drivers almost passed out.
In order to “improve the venting and cooling of drivers” during such extreme conditoons, the FIA launched an investigation. An FIA Spokesperson said on Friday: “In response to the extreme temperatures experienced at last year’s Qatar GP, the FIA and all F1 teams immediately initiated research to improve the venting and cooling of drivers in such conditions.
“Since then, the technical regulations have been updated to allow the introduction of a passive scoop on top of the cockpit for enhanced ventilation, which teams are strongly encouraged to use.”
The statement also stated that the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix would serve as the testing ground for an experimental system.
The FIA is testing a direct in-cockpit air cooling technique, as it directs cooled air to the driver via a number of smaller structures surrounding the cockpit and car body, which differs from a standard air conditioning unit.
“These joint research activities have advanced and focused on the development of an active cooling system which would be installed in F1 cars when facing extreme conditions.
“Initial tests and in-situ proof of concept are planned to take place in Zandvoort and upcoming races. If these tests prove successful, the FIA will mandate the installation of such an active cooling system in Formula 1 cars in the future when a heat hazard will have been declared.”
At the Hungarian Grand Prix, where temperatures aren’t predicted to drop below 27°C, extreme heat is a major concern. Teams would be “authorised exceptional measures” to guarantee effective cooling for drivers and equipment, according to Fia’s statement, adding: “With the Hungarian GP expected to take place in hot conditions this weekend, the FIA will monitor the situation and ensure driver cooling passive scoops are installed.
“Additionally, teams will be authorized exceptional measures to cool down driver equipment and survival cell as much as possible before sessions.”
