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What is the cooldown room in F1? All you need to know about the procedure
Over time F1 fans have enjoyed watching the live broadcast cut to the driver cooldown room after each grand prix to witness the top three finishers debrief the race. In 2023, this tradition sparked various memes online, especially with world champion Max Verstappen making frequent appearances in the room after 21 out of 22 grands prix. Fans jokingly likened it to having his own podcast, hosting different “guest” drivers each week.
The F1 cooldown room is a crucial area where the top three finishers retreat to after leaving parc ferme, providing a space for drivers to cool down and recover before the podium ceremony. This climate-controlled room plays a significant role in maintaining the safety and well-being of the drivers, especially in extreme conditions like the scorching temperatures experienced in the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix.
Besides offering amenities such as cold water, towels, cooling fans, and chairs for the drivers, the room serves as a platform for post-race discussions and reactions among the top three drivers, often televised with highlights from the race. Fans eagerly tune in to catch glimpses of interactions and exchanges between their favorite drivers, leading to memorable moments like the 2023 Canadian GP reaction involving Verstappen, Hamilton, and Alonso.
While the top three finishers and select officials occupy the cooldown room, non-podium finishers are not required to wait there. Instead, they proceed directly to their media obligations and motor homes post-parc ferme. Filming of the cooldown room provides fans with a unique behind-the-scenes look at the drivers and their reactions, adding another layer of excitement and engagement to the F1 experience.
