F1 drivers' cooling systems will not be mandatory in 2025
The FIA has announced that the cooling system for drivers will ultimately not be mandatory starting from the 2025 season. This decision, which was a topic of discussion within the paddock, allows teams the freedom to choose whether or not to implement this technology in their cars.
A debate on managing extreme temperatures
During the 2023 season, several drivers complained about extreme conditions in some races, particularly at the Qatar Grand Prix, where very high temperatures caused discomfort and excessive fatigue. These incidents reignited the debate on the need to integrate an onboard cooling system to improve driver comfort and safety.
In response, the FIA had considered making this device mandatory from 2025. However, after months of consultations with teams and engineers, the governing body decided not to enforce this technology, leaving each team to decide whether they want to implement it.
Why this change?
Several factors influenced this decision. From a technical standpoint, adding a cooling system presents a challenge in terms of design and weight, as cars must comply with regulatory limits. Some teams feared that this requirement could affect weight distribution and vehicle performance.
Additionally, some drivers expressed doubts about the actual effectiveness of these systems and preferred other solutions, such as lighter racing suits and cockpit modifications to better manage heat.
Freedom left to the teams
Thus, for the 2025 season, each team will have the option to install a cooling device if they deem it necessary, but it will not be mandatory. This flexible approach allows teams to consider their own technical constraints and gives drivers the freedom to choose the solutions that best suit them.
However, driver comfort and thermal safety remain a major concern, and the FIA has stated that it will continue to monitor the impact of climatic conditions on driver performance and health. Further regulatory adjustments may be considered in the future based on feedback from the paddock.
Photo: Chillout Motorsport