P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Qatar GP was ‘torture’ for drivers – Bottas
Alfa Romeo’s Valtteri Bottas described the Qatar Grand Prix as “torture” due to the challenging conditions experienced by the drivers during the race. The high ambient temperatures, combined with extreme humidity and mandated 18-lap stints with little tire management, made for a tough afternoon. It was the first time in Formula One history that stint lengths were specifically prescribed across all tire compounds for safety reasons. While the drivers believed there was no need for maximum stint lengths, a decision was made on the morning of the race, resulting in effectively completing qualifying laps throughout the 57-lap Grand Prix. Bottas, benefiting from saving enough tires, finished in eighth place and expressed the opinion that the cockpit temperatures were almost unbearable. One driver retired due to intense dehydration, while another vomited during the race, highlighting the extreme conditions. Bottas stated that if it were any hotter, it would not be safe.
Source: RacingNews 365
