Qatar GP: FIA to consider changes for ‘extreme weather conditions’ after claims of ‘dangerous’ heat
The FIA says it is taking action now to avoid a repeat scenario in such “extreme weather conditions”; Multiple drivers suffered issues due to the heat; F1 returns with the United States GP – live on Sky Sports F1 from October 20-22
Last Updated: 09/10/23 8:57pm
The best of the action from a dramatic Qatar Grand Prix
The best of the action from a dramatic Qatar Grand Prix
The FIA has confirmed that action will be taken after claims of “dangerous heat” at the Qatar Grand Prix.
Drivers raced in gruelling heat in Qatar, Esteban Ocon revealing he threw up during the Grand Prix, while Lando Norris called the race conditions “too dangerous”.
Other drivers also suffered as Logan Sargeant retired due to feeling “sick”, Alex Albon headed to the medical centre and didn’t attend the post-race media activities, while Lance Stroll nearly fainted when getting out of his Aston Martin following the race.
Esteban Ocon reveals he threw up in his helmet due to the extreme conditions during the Qatar Grand Prix
The humidity, temperatures which were in excess of 40 degrees and the high-speed corners made the race incredibly tough for the drivers.
Another factor was the 18-lap limit on tyres which led to a minimum of three pit stops, so the drivers pushed harder during the Grand Prix, which was won by Max Verstappen on Sunday.
On the back of concern, the FIA has released a statement saying: “The FIA notes with concern that the extreme temperature and humidity during the 2023 FIA Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix had an impact on the wellbeing of the drivers.
“While being elite athletes, they should not be expected to compete under conditions that could jeopardise their health or safety.
“The safe operation of the cars is, at all times, the responsibility of the competitors, however as with other matters relating to safety such as circuit infrastructure and car safety requirements, the FIA will take all reasonable measures to establish and communicate acceptable parameters in which competitions are held.”
It will now begin an analysis of the situation in an attempt to provide recommendations for future situations of “extreme weather conditions”.
Lance Stroll and Alex Albon are both seen struggling to get out of their cars from the onboard cameras at the end of a gruelling Qatar GP. Both drivers were given the all-clear after medical checks
Although next year’s Qatar Grand Prix is in December, the FIA says it is acting now to avoid a “repeat scenario”.
Sky Sports’ Martin Brundle believes that such extreme weather shows the drivers as the “heroes” they are and are the “challenge” the drivers need.
In a post on social media, he said: “It’s races like Qatar and very rainy days which make F1 drivers look the heroes and athletes they are.
“Absolutely don’t buy into the weak view we shouldn’t put them through this kind of challenge.
“Check out Senna in Brazil, Stewart at rainy Nurburgring, Lauda post crash, etc etc.”
Watch Formula 1 return to Texas for the United States Grand Prix and another Sprint weekend live on Sky Sports F1 from October 20-22. Stream F1 on Sky Sports with NOW for £21 a month for six months
