Formula 1 News: FIA commits to looking at heat issue in Qatar

While some say the drivers should train better for the heat, the F1 governing body has committed to looking at the issue like we saw in Qatar.

(GMM) Formula 1 drivers should be looking at their training regimes after the scorching Qatar GP.

That is the opinion of former driver turned pundit Christian Danner, after the FIA released a statement about the multiple drivers who suffered medical issues with dehydration and heat exposure last Sunday.

Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing looks on in parc ferme during the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on October 08, 2023 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool — Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing looks drained in parc ferme during the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on October 08, 2023 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool

“While being elite athletes, they should not be expected to compete under conditions that could jeopardize their health or safety,” the statement read.

The FIA is therefore promising a full analysis into the situation in Qatar and “recommendations for future situations of extreme weather conditions”.

Lance Stroll, for instance, who walked straight from his car to an ambulance in parc ferme with dizziness and vision problems, said F1 should consider technical rules for better driver ventilation.

However, Danner thinks the drivers should actually be taking personal lessons about their training programs from the extreme and ultra-humid desert heat.

Christian Danner (GER), Former Grand Prix Driver, RTL TV Commentator

“It’s not just about the six-pack and training in the gym,” he told Servus TV.

“Please don’t misunderstand me, but for me, it wasn’t too much of a surprise that it was so hot in Qatar. Modern drivers are well-trained, of course, but perhaps they are training incorrectly.

“It can’t be the case that the drivers aren’t physically well-prepared enough for such an intense race. A driver can always train on a bike in the sauna and turn up the heat,” the 65-year-old German added.

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FIA Statement

“The FIA notes with concern that the extreme temperature and humidity during the 2023 FIA Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix had an impact on the wellbeing of the drivers. While being elite athletes, they should not be expected to compete under conditions that could jeopardize their health or safety,”

“The FIA has begun an analysis of the situation in Qatar to provide recommendations for future situations of extreme weather conditions. It should be noted that while next year’s edition of the Qatar Grand Prix is scheduled later in the year, when temperatures are expected to be lower, the FIA prefers to take material action now to avoid a repeat of this scenario,” the statement added.