Formula 1 drivers are set to undergo a significant change in their racing gear starting in 2026, with the introduction of FIA-approved cooling vests. These wearable-tech shirts are designed to help keep drivers cool during races in extreme heat conditions. While they will be optional for competitors in the 2025 Formula 1 season, the FIA has given the green light for their mandatory use in the following year.
The decision to implement these cooling vests stems from the events of the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, where several drivers faced heat-related issues. Logan Sargeant had to withdraw from the race due to heatstroke, Esteban Ocon vomited in his helmet, and Lance Stroll briefly lost consciousness. These incidents highlighted the urgent need for better heat management solutions in Formula 1.
Initially, there were discussions about introducing air-conditioning units in the car cockpits to address the heat concerns. However, due to technical complexities, this idea was shelved. Instead, the FIA opted to leverage existing wearable-tech solutions, such as the Cypher Pro Micro Cooler produced by Chillout Motorsports, as a more practical approach.
The main challenge in developing these cooling devices was ensuring they met the FIA’s strict safety regulations, especially regarding fire resistance in the event of a crash. The vests incorporate nearly 50 meters of tubes that circulate cooled fluid from a dedicated box containing a micro-processor to maintain optimal temperatures around the driver’s torso.
Following collaborative efforts between the FIA, Formula 1 teams, and industry experts, the driver cooling system was approved by the F1 Commission in London. The system will be activated when temperatures exceed 31 degrees Celsius, as measured by FIA sensors placed around race venues. This threshold aims to prevent drivers from facing extreme heat stress during races.
For the upcoming 2026 F1 season, the cooling systems will be integrated into the new car designs’ electrical systems and will be mandatory at all times. However, in the 2025 season, drivers have the option to use the cooling vests until the threshold temperature is reached. This transitional period allows for further testing and refinement of the technology before full implementation.
In a bid to prevent drivers from gaining a competitive advantage by opting out of using the cooling vests, those who choose not to wear them in 2025 will be required to carry an additional 500 grams of ballast in their cockpits. This measure ensures fairness and maintains a level playing field among competitors.
Some drivers, like Lewis Hamilton, have expressed skepticism about the necessity of cooling vests in Formula 1. Hamilton believes that part of being a professional athlete is training rigorously to endure challenging conditions without additional aids. However, the FIA’s decision to introduce cooling vests reflects a broader commitment to prioritizing driver safety and well-being in the sport.
As Formula 1 continues to evolve with technological advancements and safety innovations, the introduction of FIA-approved cooling vests marks a significant step towards enhancing driver comfort and performance in extreme racing conditions. By combining cutting-edge technology with stringent safety standards, the sport aims to ensure a competitive yet safe environment for all drivers on the grid.
