The FIA ​​warns that F-1 drivers cannot compete “in conditions that endanger their health”

MADRID, 9 Oct. (EUROPA PRESS) –

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) said it had observed “with concern” what happened this past Sunday during the Qatar Grand Prix of the Formula 1 World Championship and made it clear that the drivers cannot compete “in conditions that endanger their health or security”, so it will carry out a study of what happened to include measures to avoid it in the future.

“The FIA ​​notes with concern that the extreme temperature and humidity during the Qatar Grand Prix had an impact on the well-being of the drivers. Although they are elite athletes, they should not be expected to compete in conditions that could endanger their health. or safety,” the FIA ​​stressed in a statement after what happened on Sunday.

The drivers showed their discontent with the organization of the seventeenth round of the World Championship, ensuring that it was “beyond the limit of what is acceptable”, in the words of the British George Russell (Mercedes), and that it was “too dangerous” to drive, as Lando stated. Norris (McLaren). Canadian Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) confessed that he fainted due to the extreme heat and humidity during the race.

The FIA ​​recalled that “as with other safety-related matters, such as circuit infrastructure and single-seater safety requirements, it will take all reasonable measures to establish and communicate acceptable parameters under which competitions are held.”

For this reason, the federation confirmed that it will study what happened in Losail “to offer recommendations for future situations of extreme weather conditions.” “It should be noted that, although next year’s Qatar Grand Prix is ​​scheduled for the end of the year, when temperatures are expected to be lower, the FIA ​​prefers to take material measures now to avoid a repeat of this scenario,” he pointed out.

In this sense, the FIA ​​explained that among the “several measures” that it may include are “guidance for competitors, research on modifications for more efficient air flow in the cabin and recommendations for changes to the calendar to align it with conditions.” acceptable climatic conditions.

“Research from other tests, such as cross-country tests in extreme climates, will be examined to determine possible applications in circuit tests. The FIA’s commitment to closer cooperation between technical, medical and safety departments under the leadership of your president will facilitate this process,” he stated.