P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen has voiced his strong opposition to the mandatory introduction of cooling vests for F1 drivers.
Max Verstappen strongly opposes the mandatory use of cooling vests for F1 drivers in 2026, stating that he prefers it to be a driver’s choice and not a requirement for safety reasons. The FIA introduced the cooling vest requirement as a response to extreme heat conditions at the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, where some drivers experienced physical discomfort. Verstappen, as a senior driver and world champion, emphasized the need for driver preference in using the cooling vest due to issues with comfort and design constraints in F1 cockpits. He highlighted the lack of space in the cockpit to accommodate the cooling vest equipment effectively and raised concerns over the practicality of maintaining cooling efficiency during races. Verstappen’s stance reflects a broader discussion within the F1 community on balancing safety measures with driver preferences and the technical challenges of implementing new regulations.
