Norris Criticises Qatar GP, Calling It "Too Risky" for Drivers

According to Lando Norris, the Qatar Grand Prix had an excessive risk factor due to the combination of high temperatures, g-force, and an intense race.

At a time when many drivers were on the brink of exhaustion, Lance Stroll lost consciousness mid race, Esteban Ocon was sick his helmet, and Logan Sargeant had to retire due to heatstroke. After the race Alex Albon had to helped out of his car by a Williams team member. To add to this, the medical centre had several visitors post-race, prompting podium finisher Norris to express his concern that F1 had gone beyond what is deemed acceptable.

At the Qatar Grand Prix, it was more than just the heat that pushed F1 drivers to their limits. The regulations of a flat-out race, with compulsory short tyre stints on the rapid track, made the challenge even greater.

When Motorsport.com inquired if Formula 1 had gone too far with what it was asking of its drivers, Lando Norris replied, "I believe we have reached the boundary today. It's a shame we had to find it in such a fashion."

No one likes to find themselves in a situation where people are being sent to the medical centre or passing out; it is a very hazardous state of affairs.

The drivers have to prepare more than just showing up to the race, as they'll be driving a closed car that can get very hot.

When it appears on television, it may not seem that demanding physically, but when you look at the individuals who have had to end their careers prematurely or are in really bad shape due to the speed of the sport, it's obvious that the risks are too high.

Considering the race taking place later in the season, the weather should be cooler than it was this year, which is something to keep in mind. There is no doubt we'll address the issue of why it happened in the first place.

Max Verstappen, the winner of the race, likely had a more effortless experience as his Red Bull car cruised at the front of the field. He was adamant that the challenges drivers were facing had nothing to do with their physical condition - it was all about the weather conditions.

He expressed his concerns with the weather, claiming, "I wasn't looking forward to it when I checked the forecast before arriving here. It's much too hot. Just like Lando stated, it has nothing to do with needing more practice or anything."

The races are long, however, Qatar isn't the only long race. For example, Singapore is almost two hours long and very hot. It's pushing the boundaries of what should be allowed. 

Come December 1, 2024, when the race is planned to occur next year, it is expected that the weather will be much cool than it is now.

Verstappen believes that a comprehensive review of the weekend in Qatar must be conducted, as the issue with the tyres brought about by the new kerbs overshadowed the event.

Verstappen noted that there should be a lot of discussion about the events of the weekend, commenting that "it's not a desirable state of affairs".