Italian GP declared heat hazard amid soaring temperatures

The Italian Grand Prix has been declared a heat-hazard race as temperatures continue to rise following a summer heatwave in the country.

The official designation applies when temperatures are forecast to exceed 31C at some point during Sunday’s Italian GP.

Temperatures around Monza, north-east of Milan, are expected to reach the mid-30s throughout the weekend.

They peaked at 36C near Milan’s Linate Airport on Wednesday afternoon.

The heat-hazard ruling allows Formula 1 drivers to use a cooling system that circulates cooled liquid, such as glycol, through pipes fitted inside a fireproof top worn beneath their racing overalls.

The cooling system is optional, however, drivers who choose not to use it must carry 5kg of ballast in their cars to ensure they do not gain a competitive advantage.

The Italian GP is the second race this season to receive the heat-hazard designation, after the Austrian Grand Prix was similarly affected earlier during the summer heatwave.

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Some drivers prefer not to use the cooling system because of the discomfort it can cause. There have also been instances where the coolant has run out before the end of a race.

If that happens, the liquid can reach the temperature of the car, which is considerably higher than the ambient temperature.

Cockpit temperatures in an F1 car can exceed 40C, while drivers wear several layers of fireproof clothing, along with a balaclava and helmet.

The combination of high temperatures and protective equipment makes overheating a serious concern for drivers during the race.