BROC Feeney admits to having mixed feelings about the new driver cooling rules that could be triggered at this weekend’s Darwin Triple Crown.
Supercars last month mandated that, on days where the local ambient temperature is forecast to exceed 32.9 degrees, it will monitor that cool suit and helmet air systems are operating below 25 degrees.
It has warned that cars could be forced to retire if such protocols are not satisfied.
Feeney was one of three drivers to notably suffer from overheating during the Sunday Sydney race back in February, along with teammate Will Brown and Team 18’s David Reynolds.
MORE: Reynolds recounts horror Sydney deterioration
The #88 Red Bull Ampol driver noted that in the aftermath several people including medical experts had reached out to advise of the associated risks to long-term health.
It’s for that reason Feeney certainly understands why the regulations are being introduced, though he can’t help but fear the impact it could have from a competitive standpoint.
“I must say, with this rule now, it is a worry,” the championship leader said via MotorRacing 360.
“What happens if you get into a race and it stops working for a few laps and you trickle over that number (i.e. 25 degrees for cool suit/helmet air) and they black flag you?
“I’d rather just cop the pain than a black flag to be honest, but that’s the way it goes.”
He later reiterated: “If something goes wrong, we’re going to miss out on a lot of points.”
Maximum temperatures this weekend in Darwin are predicted to hover in the early 30s, and there is a chance of rain on Friday.
The Undercut – The Chevy Situation
The Undercut is back, breaking down the latest happenings in the world of Supercars racing!