Verstappen dismisses heat complaints as Russell calls for cooling vests

Max Verstappen has pushed back against concerns about the heat faced by Formula 1 drivers, arguing that coping with high temperatures is part of racing. Speaking to RacingNews365 and other outlets on 3 October, he said he did not need a cooling system and that drivers should train for hot conditions. He acknowledged that racing in the heat was uncomfortable and suggested he might be less affected by it than others.

His view contrasts with George Russell’s position. RacingNews365 reports that the Mercedes driver wants the FIA to require cooling vests for every driver in high temperatures. It also says Russell did not have a vest that weekend because of budget-cap constraints.

Verstappen recalled finding the heat harder to manage when he was about 18 and said he responded by training in hot conditions, including sauna sessions.