Footage from the recent Singapore Grand Prix at Marina Bay has captured the grueling conditions faced by drivers, including Mercedes’ George Russell and Lewis Hamilton. The race, held in blistering 32°C heat with over 70% humidity, presented significant physical challenges. Russell, who started and finished in 4th position, was visibly struggling upon race completion, leaning against Valtteri Bottas’ Sauber C44 for support, likening the experience to being in a sauna. Hamilton, finishing 6th after starting 3rd, suffered borderline heatstroke, according to Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff.
“They did not feel well, borderline heatstroke or something like that but they have had water. They would not have been able to go to the (media) pen. There were no bad feelings or any annoyance. It is just that we had the doctors with them. But they are all good,” Wolff stated, emphasizing the severity of the conditions and the subsequent medical attention required.
The intense heat led to widespread fatigue among drivers, with race winner Lando Norris also reporting dizziness and shortness of breath after brushing the walls multiple times. The extreme conditions drew comparisons to the 2023 Qatar GP, where similar temperatures caused several drivers to suffer physically.
Mercedes publicly excused Russell and Hamilton from media duties, confirming their recovery via statement and social media updates, showcasing the extraordinary physical demands experienced at this Grand Prix.
