The FIA confirms the Halo for the 2018 season!

White smoke emerged in Geneva! The main topic on the table, the Strategy Group has spoken on the sensitive issue of the safety of future Formula 1 cars. Comprised of six teams (Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, Force India, Williams, and McLaren, with the remaining four being invited for the first time as observers), the International Automobile Federation, and Formula One Management, the decision was made to introduce the Halo protection system for the next season.

Simple in appearance, the implementation of such a measure was nevertheless difficult. According to information notably relayed by Autosport, nine out of the ten teams voted against the Halo. However, in matters related to safety, the FIA can override the veto. Now, the ball is in the court of the World Motor Sport Council, which will have the task of ratifying the decision made. It now seems unlikely that the reverse will be initiated.

Safety hoop directly installed on the F1 cockpit, the Halo therefore takes precedence over other systems seen during various free practice sessions. It is notably remembered that the Shield did not have time to prove itself, after a lap during FP1 of the last British Grand Prix, with Sebastian Vettel on board. The Ferrari driver had a very negative feedback, complaining of a distorted vision and even dizziness.

On the sidelines of the news, the FIA issued a statement welcoming the introduction of such a safety measure.

Following the unanimous agreement of the Strategic Group in July to introduce additional protection to the front of Formula 1 cars, the FIA confirms the introduction of the Halo for 2018, with strong support from the drivers. In development with the teams, certain aspects of its future design will be improved.

The Halo was actually the most tested process by the various teams in recent months: each of them was able to try it during the season. Supposed to protect drivers from external debris like a stray wheel, the design of the Halo was nevertheless criticized by Formula 1 players in recent months. In response to repeated complaints, the introduction of the Halo was postponed to 2018. President of the GPDA, Romain Grosjean expressed his fear of seeing closed cars in the near future. In March, Nico Hülkenberg mentioned that the idea of the Halo was simply horrible!

But safety prevails, and despite criticisms of its aesthetics and effectiveness, the Halo is on track to be established. Let’s remember that last April, a Parisian meeting of the same strategic group led to the abandonment of the project. The shield was then favored, but there is no doubt that Sebastian Vettel’s remarks hastened its downfall.

Finally, the FIA also took the opportunity to introduce a new cost control approach, after unanimous support from the stakeholders present. This affirmed reduction will primarily serve to attract new manufacturers and engine suppliers in anticipation of the new power unit, which will debut at the start of the 2021 season.