FIA to look at F1 calendar changes after Qatar GP

Formula 1
George Russell before the Qatar Grand Prix

The FIA says it will look into calendar changes and other measures in Formula 1 to deal with extreme weather following the Qatar Grand Prix.

Alpine driver Esteban Ocon said he had vomited in his helmet.

“They should not be expected to compete under conditions that could jeopardise their health or safety,” said motorsport’s governing body.external-link

Mercedes driver George Russell called the Qatar Grand Prix “brutal” and said he “felt close to fainting”, while Williams driver Logan Sargeant retired because he could not cope with conditions any longer.

The American’s team-mate Alex Albon was also taken to the medical centre and treated for acute heat exposure.

“The FIA has begun an analysis into the situation in Qatar to provide recommendations for future situations of extreme weather conditions,” added the governing body.

“It should be noted that, while next year’s edition of the Qatar Grand Prix is scheduled later in the year, when temperatures are expected to be lower, the FIA prefers to take material action now to avoid a repeat of this scenario.”

The FIA says it will also discuss measures to avoid a similar situation to that in Qatar when it holds a medical commission meeting in Paris.

“Measures may include guidance for competitors, research into modifications for more efficient airflow in the cockpit, and recommendations for changes to the calendar to align with acceptable climatic conditions, among others,” said the FIA.

“Research from other series’, such as cross-country events in extreme climates, will be examined for potential applications to circuit events.”

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