Formula One’s governing physique (FIA) on Monday introduced plans to safeguard drivers from the extreme warmth and humidity witnessed throughout Sunday’s Qatar Grand Prix.
Some of the drivers racing within the scorching circumstances had been getting ready to collapse, experiencing vomiting and extreme dehydration after crossing the end line, with Williams’ rookie Logan Sargeant feeling too unwell to proceed.
The International Automobile Federation mentioned in a press release it had “begun an evaluation into the scenario in Qatar to supply suggestions for future conditions of utmost climate circumstances.
“Measures could embrace steerage for opponents, analysis into modifications for extra environment friendly airflow within the cockpit, and suggestions for modifications to the calendar to align with acceptable weather conditions, amongst others.
“Research from other series, such as cross-country events in extreme climates, will be examined for potential applications to circuit events.”
The FIA mentioned measures could be mentioned at a gathering of its medical fee in Paris.
The monitor temperature in the course of the evening race on the Lusail circuit, the place Red Bull’s Max Verstappen claimed a 3rd world title, by no means dropped beneath 36 levels Celsius (96.8 levels Fahrenheit), whereas daytime temperatures exceeded 40 levels Celsius.
The FIA famous that subsequent yr’s race in Qatar can be held in December, when temperatures needs to be decrease, however mentioned it most well-liked “to take material action now to avoid a repeat of this scenario.”
“While being elite athletes, they should not be expected to compete under conditions that could jeopardise their health or safety,” it mentioned.
Verstappen informed reporters on Sunday that “some of the guys who were struggling today are extremely fit, probably even fitter than me, but just the whole day it’s like you’re walking around in a sauna.”
The inaugural Qatar Grand Prix in 2021 was held in late November. There was no race in 2022 as a result of nation internet hosting the soccer World Cup.
The calendar, which now has 4 races within the Middle East, is put collectively by the business rights holder after which authorized by the FIA.
The Middle Eastern rounds are often scheduled originally and finish of the calendar to keep away from the most well liked months. Next yr’s calendar is scheduled to have a file 24 rounds.
Drivers have additionally struggled within the warmth and humidity in Singapore and Miami.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
