F1 to ditch 'halo' protection device in favor of screen

[April 26, 2017]  By Alan Baldwin

SOCHI, Russia (Reuters) - Formula One is set to abandon plans for a 'halo' head protection system in favor of a transparent screen that could be introduced for 2018.

The governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) announced the development following a meeting of the sport's core Strategy Group in Paris on Tuesday ahead of this weekend's Russian Grand Prix.

"A number of more integrated solutions for additional frontal protection have been studied, and the decision has been taken to give priority to the transparent ‘shield’ family of systems," it said in a statement.

"The FIA aims to carry out track tests of this system during this season in preparation for implementation in 2018."

The 'halo' cockpit protection device, which is fixed at three points including a central pillar in front of the driver that supports a protective loop above his head, was extensively tested last season with a mixed response.

The FIA said in January the net safety benefit had been established but a decision needed to be made about the aesthetics and whether such a system was right for Formula One.

Cockpit protection has become a priority since the deaths of drivers in other series after being hit by wheels and flying debris.

The shield, a see-through screen in front of the driver that does not cover the cockpit, was tested in practice for this year's Chinese Grand Prix.

Decisions made at the Strategy Group have to be approved by the FIA's World Motor Sport Council, which is usually a formality.

Ferrari Formula One driver Sebastian Vettel of Germany leads the pack during the race. REUTERS/Hamad I Mohammed

Tuesday's meeting also agreed changes to the 2018 regulations that will lead to the disappearance of the current 'T-wing' and 'Shark Fin’ aerodynamic devices that have also been criticized on aesthetics grounds.

Measures will also be taken to ensure that oil will not be used as fuel.

The Strategy Group, which is currently limited to top teams, will also be opened to non-members.

The governing body said this would demonstrate "the effective commitment of both the FIA and the Commercial Rights Holder to improve transparency in the sport."

(Editing by Peter Rutherford)

[© 2017 Thomson Reuters. All rights reserved.]

Copyright 2017 Reuters. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.