Formula One’s governing body has declared a heat hazard for the Austrian Grand Prix at Spielberg’s Red Bull Ring this weekend, the first time this season that the designation has been used. The race director, Rui Marques, said the official weather service forecasts temperatures higher than 31C during the race.
Cooling Systems Mandated
Declaring a heat hazard requires teams to fit a driver cooling system, such as a liquid-cooled vest, though drivers are not obliged to use them and can take a ballast penalty instead. The car’s minimum weight is increased to accommodate the hardware. This measure aims to protect drivers from extreme heat, which can impair performance and pose health risks.
Previous Heat Hazard Races
In October last year, the Singapore Grand Prix was the first time the heat hazard designation was applied after it was added to the rules in 2025, followed by the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, the same month. The Austrian race marks the third time the rule has been invoked.
Championship Context
The race on Sunday will be the eighth round of the championship, with the 19-year-old Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli at the top of the world championship standings. The heatwave in Europe has intensified concerns, with soaring temperatures expected to challenge both drivers and teams throughout the weekend.
