The Italian Grand Prix at Monza has been officially designated as a heat-hazard race due to soaring temperatures in the region. This designation is applied when forecasted temperatures are expected to surpass 31 degrees Celsius (87.8 degrees Fahrenheit) at any point during the race.
Ambient temperatures around Monza, located northeast of Milan, are predicted to remain in the mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit) throughout the weekend. Temperatures had already peaked at 36C (96.8F) on Wednesday afternoon near Milan's Linate airport. The ongoing summer heatwave has contributed to these high conditions.
As a result of the heat-hazard declaration, drivers are permitted to use a cooling system that circulates chilled liquid, such as glycol, through a network of pipes embedded in a fireproof top worn beneath their racing overalls. While the use of this cooling kit is optional, drivers who opt out must carry an additional 5 kilograms (11 pounds) of ballast in their cars to prevent any competitive advantage gained from foregoing the equipment.