Kimi Antonelli reignites cooling jacket controversy at US GP

Following a historic first in Singapore, the FIA ​​has once again declared a risk of extreme heat at the United States Grand Prix. The cause: temperatures expected to exceed 31°C at some point during the sprint or Grand Prix.

FIA declares 'extreme heat' status in Austin

In accordance with the regulations, pilots can choose to wear a refrigerated vest to better withstand these trying conditions or to carry an additional 0,5 kg of ballast, equivalent to the weight of the device, in order to ensure fairness for all. This ballast is in addition to the 4,5 kg cooling tank that must be installed in the car, according to article 26.19 of the FIA ​​Sporting Regulations.

This system, introduced following the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, where many drivers suffered from heatstroke, has sparked debate. While some welcome the initiative, others consider it still imperfect. Kimi Antonelli suffered the brunt of this during the only free practice session held in Austin.

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Antonelli suffers cooling system failure

The Italian driver's cooling vest malfunctioned, severely penalizing him on his first appearance at the Circuit of the Americas. I had a little trouble driving because I had some physical problems. (in EL), confides the Bolognese to the microphone of the F1 after the Sprint qualifications. I was wearing a cooling vest and the cooling system failed. Instead of cooling me down, it was heating me up. So I had a lot of trouble during the session."

The protégé of Mercedes Benz finished 18th in Free Practice and narrowly missed SQ3 by 0,08 seconds. It's obviously very disappointing, because I felt good in SQ1. In SQ2, I struggled, I locked my wheels., nevertheless recognizes the rookie. I had two big blockages in the lap and lost a lot of time. » His teammate George Russell reached SQ3 and qualified 5th^e for the Sprint. We had the pace to be in SQ3 today. We are focused on tomorrow, it's a new day. " concludes Antonelli.

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Pilots' doubts about cooling vests confirmed

In response to criticism, the FIA ​​has pointed to the teams' slowness in developing the product. Its discomfort is particularly " due to the slowness of some teams and clothing manufacturers to resolve the problem" explained Nikolas Tombazis to The Race.

The Antonelli incident reinforces the reservations expressed by several drivers, including Charles Leclerc that holds the top spot. " In In some cases, when the ice has melted, there is no longer cold water circulating in your vest, but hot water, which is not very pleasant. " complained the pilot. Classic Ferrari for sale after Singapore.

Although wearing a vest remains optional for the time being, the case of the young Italian does not argue in favor of its future obligation.