The Italian Grand Prix is rarely short on drama, but this weekend, the biggest threat to Formula 1's stars may not be another driver at all. As the grid descends on Monza, an unexpected challenge is forcing extra precautions, one that could test more than speed and strategy.  

On September 3rd, the FIA declared a 'heat hazard' for the race at Monza. The declaration kicks in as the temperatures are forecast to top 87.8°F during Sunday's race, and Monza is expected to sit in the mid-90s Fahrenheit all weekend. 

The heat hazard designation activates F1's heat stress protocol, introduced in the wake of the horrifying 2023 Qatar Grand Prix. As reported by Formula One on its website, the drivers have some flexibility in how they use the cooling system.

"Any driver may elect not to wear any items of personal equipment that form part of the Driver Cooling System,” reads Article B1.5.10 of the Sporting Regulations, as per the reports put out by Formula One on their website on September 3rd. “In such circumstance, all other components, including any cooling medium of the Driver Cooling System, must be fitted." 

The reports further revealed that if a driver does opt out, Article B1.5.10 of the Sporting Regulations requires the car to make up for it elsewhere. 

"In addition, the difference in mass between the driver’s personal equipment normally used, and any items of a driver’s personal equipment that form part of the system must be compensated by the fitting of 0.5kg of ballast in the cockpit."

The overtakes, strategy calls, and podium fights will come as they always do at Monza. But this weekend, how each driver handles the heat may end up mattering just as much as how they handle the car. 

Oscar Piastri opens up about using the cooling vest

Part of the drivers' cooling system is a cooling vest used by them during the 'heat hazard conditions'. However, some drivers tend to find the vest uncomfortable by the time the race comes to an end, as the liquid in the vest ends up at the same temperature as the cockpit. 

However, McLaren’s Oscar Piastri has opted to use the cooling vest, weighing the risks against the benefits as he told Formula One:

"I used it a couple of times last year," he explained. "There’s obviously the risk of if it goes wrong, and if it fails, then it’s worse than not wearing it. I think if you get the system working well, it can help a bit."

He further added that the decision ultimately comes down to the individual driver.

"It’s not a complete gamechanger, but when I used it last year, it was okay. There are definitely some things that are not perfect with it, but at the end of the day, it’s personal preference." 

Piastri simply summed up his stance on the usage of the cooling vest by saying:

"We have to add the weight in the car anyway, so if you can get it to work and it cools you down a little bit, then sure." 

Whatever each driver decides, one thing is certain: Sunday at Monza is going to be a hot one. 

Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco