Sainz plays down the issue
Carlos Sainz, a veteran of ten Singapore Grands Prix, tried to minimize the importance of the new system. He explained that initially it only worked for about half an hour, but it has now been improved to last at least an hour. “If it breaks, I’m not worried. I’ve raced here many times without it. But if it works, you suffer a little less,” the Spanish driver commented.
Alonso confident, Oliver Bearman more cautious
Fernando Alonso confirmed that the system held up fine during one-hour tests, suggesting a level of reliability. However, young Haas rookie Oliver Bearman pointed to a potential flaw. He stressed the risk that the ice used in the cooling pack might melt too quickly, turning cold water into warm liquid and making conditions even worse inside the car. “If it just becomes hot water, it’s worse than not having it at all,” warned the British driver.
Russell highlights comfort improvements
Beyond effectiveness, comfort also became a key talking point. George Russell revealed that during initial testing, the tubing pressed uncomfortably against his sides during high-speed cornering. However, he added that the system has since been refined. “In Singapore there aren’t many high lateral load corners, so it won’t be a big problem,” the Mercedes driver noted.
Stroll and Hülkenberg: worth the weight
Both Nico Hülkenberg and Lance Stroll emphasized that, since teams are already required to carry a 500-gram ballast, it makes sense to fit the cooling system regardless of its limitations. “Maybe it only lasts for five laps, then it’s done,” Stroll admitted, “but in such a brutal race, it’s worth giving it a try.”
Room for improvement
Carlos Sainz also looked ahead with optimism, pointing out that this is only the first year of its implementation. “It was impossible to expect perfection straight away. In Formula 1, solutions are always found,” he concluded, highlighting that technological refinement is inevitable as teams gather more data and feedback from this debut season.
As the Singapore GP approaches, questions remain over whether the mandatory cooling system will be a real help or simply another variable in one of the toughest races on the calendar. With the sweltering conditions of Marina Bay looming, drivers and teams will discover soon enough if the innovation is a blessing or a burden.
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