In the framework of the recent Singapore Grand Prix, Alexander Albon stated that the cooling suits of Williams are “the best on the grid”. This appreciation from the British-Thai driver comes after a complicated race, in which he had to manage brake overheating and ultimately was forced to retire.
During the race, a “heat risk” was declared, which forced the drivers to decide between wearing a cooling suit or adding weight to the car. This regulation stems from the demands of the 2023 Qatar race, where many drivers suffered exhaustion from heat.
After the Grand Prix, Albon shared his impressions on the suit, commenting on his initial experience when it did not work during the first laps. “The truth is that, once it started to work, I felt very comfortable,” he said, highlighting his satisfaction with the cooling system. “With all the problems we have had this year, our cooling suit is the best on the grid, I am very happy with it,” he added.
His teammate, Carlos Sainz, also agreed with Albon, stating that the development of the suit has been one of the few successes of the season. “It has given us good performance within the car, we are very happy to have it,” he commented.
However, not all drivers are fans of this device. During media sessions, Pierre Gasly expressed that he does not need it, while Isack Hadjar expressed support for banning them, arguing that these types of innovations undermine the toughness of the competition. Max Verstappen also criticized the suits, arguing that they limit the movement of the drivers and that they are not essential, saying: “I don’t need them. They don’t even work all the time they’re expected to.”
In contrast, Kimi Antonelli recounted two negative experiences with the cooling suit in the past, where the system failed and caused him to suffer a heat stroke. Antonelli has stated that he prefers to strengthen his physical condition rather than rely on these systems that generate insecurity.
With the upcoming races about to arrive, the weather will remain a crucial factor, and temperatures are expected not to be as extreme, reducing the likelihood of similar risks in future competitions.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
SourceID: SRC_7e54be30f5d3dfa296fb30526fbec790be1b4617