From 2025, teams may be required to install a so-called ‘cooling kit’ in their cars. As Formula 1 increasingly faces extreme temperatures, drivers will essentially have a type of air conditioning. However, fans are not very enthusiastic about this new regulation. On social media, people are questioning whether this will make the cars heavier and why races are held in tropical countries in the first place.
The 2023 Qatar GP went down in history as one of the hottest races in modern Formula 1. This had significant consequences. Logan Sargeant had to abandon his race early due to the extreme heat, and Esteban Ocon vomited in his helmet. This year was no different. After the Singapore GP, Lewis Hamilton and George Russell had to skip their media obligations. Due to the scorching heat at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, both felt unfit to face the press.Since 2023, the sport has been experimenting with an air conditioning system. After successful tests during the last edition of the Dutch GP with Max Verstappen, it was announced on Thursday that teams will be allowed to use a cooling kit from 2025 onwards. Unlike a standard air conditioner, several smaller elements are placed around the cockpit in Formula 1 cars. These are designed to direct cooled air towards the driver.
‘Cup Holders Next’
Not everyone on social media thinks air conditioning in Formula 1 is a good idea. “Are they going to add cup holders and trash bins to the doors next?” one user wrote sarcastically. “Why not hang sprinklers with ice water above the circuit?” another responded. Other fans are mainly worried that such systems will add unnecessary weight to the cars. “I hope the cars don’t get heavier because of this,” is a sentiment expressed more than once.
There are also fans who question why races are held in extreme heat at all. “Maybe we should just stay in Europe,” suggested an anonymous user. Finally, there are those who react positively to the new plans of the Formula 1 commission: “It’s about time, the 2023 Qatar GP looked dangerous.”
