PALMER: The three key elements that made the race in Qatar such a test for the drivers

Sunday’s Qatar Grand Prix became one of the most physical races in Formula 1 history, in conditions and circumstances that provided the perfect storm.

There are various factors that challenge the drivers physically and necessitate their rigorous training programmes. Ambient conditions are obviously a critical factor, so too are the track layout and the tyre degradation levels. All of these factors were in play on Sunday and conspired to make this the greatest challenge for them in a long time.