Hamilton Questions Cooling Vest at Singapore Grand Prix
The seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton, has expressed skepticism about the use of the cooling vest recommended for drivers at this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix. The British driver has voiced doubts about the comfort of the device. The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) declared this weekend’s race a high-risk event due to the heat. This measure obliges drivers to use cars with an additional weight of 5 kg to accommodate the cooling system, according to a new regulation.The use of the vest is optional. If the drivers decide not to use it, ballast is added to the car to compensate for the weight difference.
Pilots are likely to test the vest during Friday practice before deciding whether to use it for the rest of the weekend. The FIA rule was implemented in response to the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, where several drivers suffered due to the intense humidity. Some drivers had already used the vests in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix earlier this year. The observed effectiveness has encouraged other drivers to consider their use this weekend.I’ve never used it, but I’ll try it. It’s quite uncomfortable. It itches a lot, so I’m not sure I want to drive with a shirt that itches.
Lewis Hamilton
