Whilst there was plenty of action at the Qatar GP, the event’s physicality is what captured most F1 news headlines post-race.
The controversy at the 2023 Qatar GP began on the first day, as speculation swirled about the structural integrity of Pirelli’s tyres across F1 news outlets. FIA inspections post-qualifying raised concerns that unexpected punctures could occur without necessary precautions.
As a result, several precautions were announced before the Saturday Sprint and Sunday Race. Alterations to the circuit and 18-lap stint restrictions dominated F1 news outlets heading into the main event.
However, despite a hectic and contested race in its own right, the wheel-to-wheel action was not the focus in Qatar. Instead, post-race discussions focused on the physical toll drivers endured over the 57 laps.
Both Veterans and Rookies endured the extremities
Logan Sargeant retired from the event mid-race, suffering from sickness in the FW45. Having shown flu-like symptoms earlier in the week, it is understandable that the rookie was experiencing such difficulties.
However, after the checkered flag fell, it became clear that others were suffering from the conditions. Among them was Fernando Alonso – the most experienced F1 driver in history.
The Spaniard told Aston Martin on the team radio that he was suffering from burning in the cockpit. Considering the heat and humidity at the Losail circuit, this is hardly surprising.
Alonso even asked if his team could pour water on him during the pit stop. Speaking to the media post-race, he revealed that the sporting regulations prevented his team from doing this:
“I got semi burns by lap 15. So I even asked on the radio if they could throw me some water or something at the pit-stop, which is apparently not allowed.”
Although Aston Martin’s specific cooling system could have contributed to this overheating, it still underscores the extremity of conditions in Qatar.
Post-race reaction and FIA response
Other drivers were also struggling, both during and immediately after the race. Videos of Alex Albon and Kevin Magnussen circulated as they attempted to leave their cars in Parc fermé.
Having expended so much energy during the 2023 Qatar GP, these drivers were among many who struggled to get out. A normally simple process became a complicated and painful one.
George Russell told the media post-race that he feared the possibility of fainting:
“By far the most physical race I’ve ever experienced. I felt close to fainting in that race. I’ve never experienced anything like it before…
“I opened my visor for the whole race and it was hot air, but it was better than no air. It was brutal.
“I was so sick in the car. I wasn’t physically… but I felt ill.”
Esteban Ocon revealed that he vomited on lap 15 – but chose to complete the race regardless. These stories and many others demonstrate the unprecedented intensity of the Qatar GP.
The FIA released a statement in response to the reaction to race conditions. A series of measures have been outlined to prevent something from repeating in the future, including:
- “Modifications for more efficient airflow in the cockpit.”
- “Recommendations for changes to the calendar to align with acceptable climatic conditions.”
Drivers will undoubtedly discuss this matter with the FIA and F1 – to safeguard their health in future race weekends.
