FIA activates heat protocol as Monza forecast reaches 34C

The FIA has declared a heat hazard for this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza after forecasts indicated that the heat index will exceed the governing body’s threshold during the race. BBC Sport and Autosport reported the declaration on Thursday, while Formula 1’s official weather forecast calls for hot, sunny conditions across all three days of track activity.

Under the Formula 1 regulations cited in the FIA notice, a heat hazard can be declared when the official weather service predicts a heat index above 31C at some point during a Sprint or Grand Prix. Autosport reported that the designation activates additional cooling procedures, with drivers able to use a cooling vest or have 0.5kg of corresponding ballast added to their cars.

The official Formula 1 forecast expects Friday practice to take place in clear and dry conditions, with the air temperature rising from 21C in the morning to 34C in the afternoon. Track temperatures could reach 56C. Saturday is also forecast to be dry, with a high of 34C, a heat index of 34C and a possible track temperature of 57C.

Race day on Sunday is expected to remain sunny and hot. Formula 1’s forecast lists an air-temperature range of 24C to 34C and a heat index of 33C to 34C, with light winds. No rain is expected during the daytime, although the forecast assigns a 10 percent chance after sunset. The Grand Prix is scheduled to start at 3pm local time.

Formula 1 introduced the heat-hazard framework after reviewing the extreme heat and humidity experienced at the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix. An official F1 explainer says the system was confirmed before the 2025 season. Every car is fitted with the required cooling system when the protocol applies, although drivers are not compelled to wear the vest.

The designation gives teams advance notice that the event will operate under the sport’s heat provisions, but it does not alter the published weekend schedule. Practice begins on Friday, qualifying takes place on Saturday and the 53-lap race follows on Sunday. With the current forecast showing high air and track temperatures throughout, driver cooling and tyre management are set to be practical considerations across the Monza weekend.