Historic Win, Heat and Heaps of Learning About Heat Management - The Jakarta ePrix

As Formula E wrapped up its weekend in Jakarta, Indonesia, there was a lot more to take away than just the results. While CUPRA KIRO Race Co. driver Dan Ticktum claimed his long-awaited maiden victory after 60 race starts in the electric racing series (in what was a chaotic, thrilling spectacle) the event also offered some scorching insights, literally.

With temperatures being around 30°C and humidity levels hovering at “unbearable,” Jakarta reminded us all of one important thing: racing in the heat is a different beast. And whether you're behind the wheel, in the pit lane, or in the grandstands, staying cool becomes an important strategic mission. 

Following the drivers, their teams and Formula E, we got to learn some wisdom about how they manage the temperatures. 

Here's what we learned – and how we, too, can apply these lessons when heading to a race:

1. Sun Protection is a Must – Even Off-Track

Not all strategies start on the grid or the pits. Drivers like Müller and Mortara were seen shielding themselves with umbrellas or makeshift head coverings to avoid direct sun exposure. When you're out in the sun for hours, even walking to the garage can become draining. Müller was also spotted (via Andretti's Instagram) enjoying the breeze from a fan, hands behind his head – a rare moment of calm in the chaos that is a race track in the heat.

Pro tip: Bring a hat, or even a small umbrella, to the track. Shade can make all the difference.

2. Heat Is More Than Just a Driver Problem

As Nick Cassidy explained in the media pen, "it’s hard to work in, hard to stay in the grandstands and watch. So probably more concerned for them [fans, team members and mechanics] than me.”

And he’s right. The heat affects everyone, from marshals to fans in the stands. It’s worth remembering that what’s tough for the drivers is often even tougher for those without access to cooling systems, shady garages or readily available drinks.

Pro tip: Hydrate constantly and take breaks. Find shaded areas in the fan zone and the hydration stations. But do come prepared too. Even if Formula E offers water for free, bring at least one bottle with you for situations where a walk to get a refill is not possible, for whatever reason.

3. Training for the Heat Is a Science

NEOM McLaren's Sam Bird shared his prep: heat training with jumpers, and even a bin bag-jumper combo on the treadmill. “Temperature is the key word,” he said. “Managing tyres, prep laps, push laps – it’s all influenced by heat.”

Oliver Rowland revealed his go-to tools for cooling – compressed air sprays in the car, an ice vest stored with the same kit they use to cool the cars, and an ice bath “den,” which he noted he prefers to use more than his teammate Norman Nato.

Pro tip: If you're travelling to a hot destination, acclimate. Even a few days in advance can help you adjust to heat and humidity.

4. Cooling Down Is Strategic – And Essential

Evans mentioned in the media pen, using ice baths, trying to “be exposed to the heat for a bit” during the build-up, but “stay as cool as possible on race day.” 

Pascal Wehrlein admitted, “This time I feel like I suffer more. Maybe it’s because I’m a bit tired from the last race weekend [Le Mans 24H], or because I’m getting older, or because it’s so humid.”

Even Max Günther kept it simple, explaining: “Jakarta is always a big challenge. It’s very hot. The weather can change from one minute to the other.” And how right he was with that, seeing as Free Practice 2 had been characterised by water on track from rain having come down prior.

Pro tip: Pack smart: Fans, and light clothing can keep you functional during long, hot days trackside.

5. Mindset Matters: Smile, Thumbs Up, and Get On With It

The heat might slow you down, but it does not have to ruin the experience of being at a race track. CUPRA KIRO Race Co. posted a cheeky Instagram, summing it up wonderfully: “Smile and whack your thumbs up if you’re absolutely melting 👍🏼.”

Dan Ticktum, ever the realist, called it in his Instagram story pre-race: “This is going to be pretty chaotic. I think there might be some decent action in this one. Let’s see how it goes.”
He wasn’t wrong – and yet he thrived in it, securing a hard-fought, well-earned win.

Final Thoughts: What We Can Take Away

Summer racing isn’t just about sunscreen and ice cream – it’s about resilience. For drivers, that means managing body temperature, hydration, and concentration. For fans, it means planning ahead, staying safe, and keeping cool – literally and mentally.

From ice vests and compressed air to a humble umbrella and a good attitude, the Jakarta weekend showed us that heat management is as much a part of race prep as strategy and setup.

So next time you're heading to a race in the summer sun – whether it’s Formula E, Formula 1, DTM or any other series – take a page from the paddock’s playbook: stay cool, stay calm, and come prepared.