Verstappen Cooling Vest Plan: FIA Response
- Max Verstappen has voiced his strong opposition to the potential mandatory use of cooling vests in Formula 1, despite the FIA considering making them compulsory from 2026.
- Verstappen, who personally doesn't find the vests helpful due to them becoming hot themselves after a short period, believes drivers should have the option to wear them, not...
- His primary concern isn't the vest's effectiveness for him, but the potential loss of driver autonomy.
Max Verstappen Opposes Mandatory Cooling Vests in F1
Max Verstappen has voiced his strong opposition to the potential mandatory use of cooling vests in Formula 1, despite the FIA considering making them compulsory from 2026.
Verstappen, who personally doesn’t find the vests helpful due to them becoming hot themselves after a short period, believes drivers should have the option to wear them, not be forced to. He stated he doesn’t “suffer from the heat that much” and prefers to sweat, finding the vest ultimately unhelpful.
His primary concern isn’t the vest’s effectiveness for him, but the potential loss of driver autonomy. He argues that safety equipment choices should be based on individual needs and feelings.
The FIA clarified that the 2026 mandate is still under discussion following a split opinion during a drivers’ briefing in singapore. They are open to further conversation with the drivers,and Verstappen is keen to participate,advocating for the continued freedom to choose whether or not to use the cooling vest.
Key takeaways:
* Verstappen doesn’t find cooling vests beneficial for himself.
* He strongly opposes a mandatory rule.
* He believes drivers should have the choice to wear them.
* The FIA is currently considering a 2026 mandate but is open to discussion.