Drivers experienced extreme temperatures during the F1 Qatar Grand Prix, with some vomiting, passing out, and retiring early. Former drivers, like Brundle, who now works as a broadcaster, disagreed with the current drivers’ criticism of the conditions. Brundle argued that races like Qatar and rainy days showcase drivers as heroes and athletes, and that they should be put through such challenges. Russell, on the other hand, responded by emphasizing the physical demands of driving modern F1 cars, especially in extreme heat, due to factors like electronic boxes and power steering systems that generate heat in the cockpit. He acknowledged the need for drivers to be gladiators, but also emphasized the limits of the human body in extreme conditions. Albon, who suffered from acute heat exposure, supported Russell’s point, stating that the extreme heat experienced was not a matter of fitness, but rather pure heat exhaustion.
Source: Crash