The 'halo' head protection concept will be introduced in 2018
- Published on 19 Jul 2017 21:14
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- By: Fergal Walsh
The FIA has confirmed that the controversial 'halo' head protection system will be introduced for Formula 1 in 2018. Cockpit protection has been a heavy topic of debate in recent years, with the 'halo' seen as the clear unfavourite among drivers and fans.
Formula 1's governing body added that the concept "presents the best overall safety performance" after the evaluation of "a large number of devices over the past five years". The 'shield' was the latest concept to be tested in Great Britain, but after one installation lap, Sebastian Vettel reported it made him feel dizzy.
After extensive testing, it was found that the 'halo' was the only device which effectively deflected a fast moving tyre and didn't obstruct the driver's few from the cockpit. The Grand Prix Drivers Association president Alex Wurz said that he respects the FIA's decision to make the sport safer.
"We drivers respect the FIA's stand on safety and support its ongoing quest to make racing safer. Over recent decades, we have seen increasing speeds and every faster lap times and this ultimate racing quest is solely possible due to increasing safety.
"Equally, over the same period of time, we have seen an increase in popularity of our sport. F1 is a role model for every increasing safety without jeopardising performance. While the halo solution might not be the most aesthetically pleasing for everyone, we drivers will nevertheless race and push as hard as we can on track, which is the key for F1 to continue its growth and popularity."
Originally, cockpit protection was supposed to be brought in for the 2017 season but was delayed when a viable solution wasn't found. Along with the confirmation, the FIA also stated that "certain features of the halo's design will be further enhanced."
The decision came today in Geneva when the rule-making strategy group met to discuss a number of matters relating to the future of Formula 1. With teams finalising decisions on their 2018 cars, a push was needed for a system to be introduced for the start of next season.
Fergal Walsh
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Replies (14)
Login to replyf1fan0101
Posts: 1,804
Noo!!!
FatMike
Posts: 153
A truly politically motivated decision. A loss for Motorsports
mbmwe36
Posts: 533
Moronic! I don't get the urgent need for this to happen when the solutions are obviously substandard.
FatMike
Posts: 153
BREAKING NEWS: This just in, in light of the announced safety measures the FIA also announced new rules for MotoGP. From 2018 in training wheels will be required to increase stability and lower the chances of falling. In addition to these measures all MotoGP tracks will be fitted with pink pluche cuddlewalls and the the gravel will be replaced by styrofoam balls.
Squirrel10
Posts: 36
Won't be long before someone suggests putting a roof over the cockpit.....
NEXT SPARE VAMP
Posts: 1,874
Bloody idiots! They are ruining the sport...
Smiler121
Posts: 53
F.F.S :-/
Hooligans Racing
Posts: 901
halo? hell no!
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
I dont like what it looks like, its ugly AF, but I dont mind if its safer for the drivers.
boudy
Posts: 1,168
Not sure what the evidence is to support the results of this device. Big stones will not be stopped by this device even in the case of massa were he got hit with a spring it might have gone through the opening. Looks like a political motivated decision. Won't stop me from watching f1 however i wonder if there are other effects. Like drivers taking more risks because they feel enclosed. This might cause big problems.
xoya
Posts: 583
Now, I fully expect Hamilton to do "a Rosberg" at the end of the season...
Barron
Posts: 625
Some pretty dramatic responses here. It's only a bit of metal ffs. Like the sound issue, some casual 'fans' get very whiny over the slightest things.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
I agree, its a slight thing, an ugly thing, yes, but its slight.
Alonzo
Posts: 66
Halo, No! Do not like it.... OK with the shield....