QATAR: Multiple Formula 1 drivers have voiced their concerns following an exceptionally challenging Qatar Grand Prix marked by scorching temperatures and demanding track conditions on Sunday.
The extreme heat at the Lusail International Circuit, combined with the physically taxing track layout and the need for frequent pit stops, pushed drivers to their physical limits.
Esteban Ocon, of Alpine Racing, revealed that he had vomited inside his helmet during the race, while Logan Sargeant was forced to retire due to “intense dehydration.” Even Williams’ teammate Alex Albon required medical treatment for “acute heat exposure.”
Ocon described the challenging conditions, saying, “I don’t think we particularly see in the cockpit too well, so it must have been like 80 degrees inside the car today. I’m glad that next year we come back in December.”
Lando Norris, who finished third in the race, criticized the scheduling of the event, stating that it was “dangerous” for drivers. He emphasized that it’s not a matter of drivers needing more training, as they already push their limits inside the hot and physically demanding cars.
Max Verstappen echoed Norris’s sentiments, adding that some of the drivers who struggled in the heat were exceptionally fit. He argued that there’s a limit to what should be allowed in terms of race conditions.
Oscar Piastri, who secured second place in the race, expressed relief that the weather on race day wasn’t as hot as earlier in the week. However, he still acknowledged that it was the toughest race he had ever experienced and called for discussions about improving race conditions.
Charles Leclerc, a Ferrari driver, described the Qatar Grand Prix as the most challenging race in every driver’s career. He attributed this to the combination of scorching heat, high-speed corners, and the need for three pit stops.
Formula 1 is set to return to Qatar in December during the 2024 season, with hopes that cooler temperatures will provide a safer and more comfortable racing experience for the drivers.
The drivers’ concerns have raised questions about the suitability of certain race conditions and may lead to discussions about safety measures and scheduling adjustments in the future.
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