Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia receives heat-hazard designation

Formula 1's Bahrain Grand Prix, being staged in Malaysia this weekend, has been designated a heat-hazard race, BBC Sport reported. It is the third event of the year to receive that status, following the Austrian and Italian Grands Prix. The declaration brings cooling equipment and a compensating weight requirement into focus for drivers facing the conditions at Sepang.

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The designation applies when temperatures are forecast to exceed 31C at some stage during a race. According to BBC Sport's report, the forecast for this weekend is between 31C and 33C, alongside high humidity and a daily possibility of rain. Sepang, near Kuala Lumpur and close to the equator, has a reputation as a particularly demanding circuit for drivers.

Drivers can use an onboard cooling system that circulates chilled liquid through pipes in a fireproof garment beneath their racing overalls. Glycol is one of the liquids that can be used. Wearing the equipment is optional, but drivers who decide against it must have 5kg of ballast added to their cars so that declining the system does not create a competitive advantage.

BBC Sport reported that some drivers prefer not to wear the kit because they find it uncomfortable. Another concern has been coolant supplies running out before the end of a grand prix. If that happens, the liquid reaches the temperature of the car, which is considerably hotter than the surrounding air, rather than continuing to provide the intended cooling.

The heat-hazard category was introduced last year after the cooling-vest technology had been developed. Cockpit temperatures can exceed 40C, while drivers compete in several layers of fireproof clothing as well as helmets and balaclavas. Those conditions make overheating a serious concern, even though the rules leave individual drivers with a choice over whether to use the cooling system.

The event is taking place in Malaysia to accommodate the Bahrain race after its original April date was postponed because of the war in the Middle East. Bahrain-related activities are being planned during the weekend to highlight the kingdom's involvement. The heat-hazard ruling therefore applies to the relocated event at Sepang, rather than a race taking place in Bahrain itself.