The Austrian Grand Prix has been labelled as a heat-hazard race by Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, due to the heatwave across Europe.
The designation comes in when temperatures for races are expected to exceed 31C at any time during which cars are on the track.
Conditions are expected to reach 33C, with the FIA prompted to take measures.
The move means drivers are able to use a cooling kit that flows cooled liquid while they are driving.
These can include glycol, which circulates through a series of pipes in a fireproof top worn underneath their overalls.
The cooling kit is not mandatory, but any driver who does not use it has to carry five kilos of ballast in the car to not have a competitive advantage.
Austria is the first race this year to be declared a heat-hazard, with the rule first being rolled out last year.
Some drivers opted out of having the cooling kit due to comfort issues, but it may be deemed necessary given the anticipated heat this weekend.
The Austrian Grand Prix has been declared a heat-hazard race
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GETTY
Last year’s Singapore and United States Grand Prix were declared heat-hazards, with Max Verstappen among the drivers who criticised the potential for cooling vests to become mandatory, which ultimately did not occur.
The Dutchman said: “I just think it should be an option – that you can choose for yourself whether you want to wear it or not.
“It’s a bit ridiculous to be honest. In the end, it’s about your own safety and how you feel about it.
“I don’t think they should make that mandatory at all.”
Drivers will have the option to wear cooling vests for the race
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GETTY
Lewis Hamilton won in Spain just shy of two weeks ago to secure his first victory for Ferrari.
The seven-time world champion produced a sensational drive to win the Spanish Grand Prix and spark wild celebrations inside the Ferrari garage, ending months of frustration since his blockbuster switch from Mercedes.
Hamilton crossed the line more than 20 seconds clear of George Russell after Ferrari executed a perfect strategy to seize control of the race following a timely Virtual Safety Car period.
Speaking to fans after climbing from the cockpit, Hamilton admitted there had been times when he questioned whether victory with Ferrari would ever become reality.
Five things to know about Ferrari star Lewis Hamilton | GETTY/GB NEWS
He said: “First, I have to say a huge ‘grazie’ to everyone here, everyone back at the factory and to Fred Vasseur for believing in me and bringing me to this team.
“I started out with a dream last year that seemed almost impossible during my time last year.
“I nearly gave up hope, but the team continued to lift me up.”
Hamilton is in pursuit of Kimi Antonelli in the driver’s championship, sitting 41 points behind the Italian.
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