Horner feels shield is "immature" for 2018 introduction

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner does not feel the time is right for Formula 1 to introduce the 'shield' cockpit protection system for 2018. At the British Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel tested the device. Ferrari had planned to do a whole run with it attached to the car but took it off after the German said he felt dizzy during the installation lap.

Head protection has been a topic of debate in the last couple of years, with some drivers against it, stating it is not part of F1's DNA. If the 'shield' is deemed not ready for use in the 2018 season, it is expected that the heavily unpopular 'halo' will be introduced.

When asked when he would have liked a decision on head protection to be made, Horner said: "About 2 months ago So these things have, particularly the shield or the screen, you could hear him saying that it was pushing his head forward and playing around with the aerodynamics quite significantly, so those things take a bit of time to get on top for a big team like Red Bull Racing, so I can only imagine the difficulty that would present for a lesser equipped team. 

"Based on the comments I've read from Sebastian it didn't sound to be too popular. It feels immature in its concept at the moment to introduce for next year. I am sure it will be discussed at the strategy group."

The strategy group is meeting today, July 19th, in Geneva to discuss a matter of issues within F1, including head protection. More outings of the 'shield' are expected to be discussed, with Italy set to be the next venue where we see it on the cars.

Fergal Walsh