Formula 1 is set to introduce the halo cockpit protection device for 2018 after the FIA pushed it through on safety grounds during Wednesday’s Strategy Group meeting, Autosport understands.
The halo and shield devices had emerged as the two options for cockpit protection, with the FIA insistent some form of device will be introduced for next season.
The halo has undergone extensive testing, with all the teams running the device at least once in 2016, while Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel tested the shield for the first time in British Grand Prix practice last Friday.
Both devices have had their critics.
When the matter was discussed at the meeting in Geneva, it is understood the shield was put on the backburner for now as it was felt significant further investigation was required.
Sources say nine of the 10 teams voted against the halo, but the FIA said it would become part of the regulations for 2018 on safety grounds.
It still requires final ratification by the World Motor Sport Council but this can be completed by e-vote if necessary.
The FIA said it would work with teams to enhance the design of the halo.
Only six of the 10 teams on the grid – Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, Williams, McLaren and Force India – had previously been part of the Strategy Group meetings along with the commercial rights holder and the FIA.
At the previous meeting, F1 sporting boss Ross Brawn presented the concept of inviting teams not officially part of the group to attend as observers.
Observers from the four teams outside the Strategy Group – Renault, Toro Rosso, Sauber and Haas – were all present on Wednesday.
Those not officially part of the group did not take part in the discussion, but were occasionally asked for their viewpoints on various subjects – including the halo vote.
It is understood much of the discussion – aside from that concerning cockpit head protection – centred around ways to improve the overall Formula 1 show with several ideas put forward for investigation before the next meeting.
The Strategy Group also discussed the issue of cost control, and will set up a working group – comprising representatives from the Formula One Group, the FIA and teams – to work on implementing measures “aimed at ensuring the sport remains sustainable in the coming years”.
