Come 2018, Formula 1 cars will be fitted with the much-mooted halo cockpit protection device. The decision to implement the device was taken by FIA on safety grounds during the Strategy Group meeting on Wednesday.
Two devices, the halo and the shield, have been in contention in FIA’s bid to improve cockpit protection since last year. Of these, the Halo was been tested by all the teams at least once in 2016, while Sebastian Vettel tested the shield on his Ferrari SF70-H during his practice session for the British Grand Prix last week.
As of now, the Federation has postponed the implementation of the shield, to investigate further for its effectiveness. The Halo, on the other hand, has been given a green flag, despite reportedly nine of the 10 teams vetoing the move.
While FIA has confirmed the halo for 2018, the body has also stated that it will work with teams to optimise the design of the device. It still requires final ratification by the World Motor Sport Council, but this can be completed by e-vote if necessary.
In addition to the frontal safety device, the Strategy Group meeting discussed future powertrains for the sport, issue of cost control, and measures to keep the sport sustainable.