FIA declares heat hazard at Monza as Italy's sixth heatwave hits 35C

The FIA has declared an official Heat Hazard for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza after Italy’s sixth heatwave of the 2026 summer pushed forecast temperatures above the governing body’s 31C trigger threshold.

Under Article B1.5.10 of the FIA F1 Regulations, the declaration activates additional driver cooling procedures. Each driver must now choose between wearing a cooling vest during the race or having a corresponding 0.5kg of ballast attached to their car — a weight penalty designed to equalise the competitive equation for those who opt out of the vest.

“In accordance with Article B1.5.10 of the FIA F1 Regulations, having received a forecast from the official weather service predicting that the heat index will be greater than 31C at some time during the race at this competition, a Heat Hazard is declared,” the FIA stated.

The region around Milan and Monza is bracing for ambient temperatures north of 35C throughout the weekend. The FIA’s official weather service expects Friday’s FP2 session to reach 36C, with 35C forecast for Saturday qualifying. Sunday’s grand prix, which starts at 3pm local time, is expected to begin in 33C conditions.

The cooling vest has been a point of contention in the paddock. The FIA had originally planned to make the device mandatory, but backed away from that position following pushback from drivers who raised concerns about its comfort and effectiveness. It therefore remains an optional tool, with the ballast alternative preserving driver choice while maintaining a level playing field on weight.

Italy has endured an exceptionally hot summer, with the latest heatwave set to affect the country for at least the next week — ensuring Monza’s race-day conditions will rank among the most demanding of the 2026 season.