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Much debate has been made over driver head protection in the last couple of years. The 'shield', a concept designed by the FIA, is set to make its debut in July at Silverstone. The FIA created the system as a replacement for the highly unpopular 'halo' which was slammed by fans and drivers alike.
The shield will need to be extensively tested and there has been some doubt recently over its introduction for 2018. The design will disrupt the airflow through the car, meaning engineers will be forced to work around the device.
Head protection awareness was raised massively following the deaths of Jules Bianchi (F1) and Justin Wilson (Indycar), who both died within a month of each other due to head injuries while racing, although Bianchi's accident was months before Wilson's.
Ferrari has been confirmed to run with the shield during the British GP practice. They will collect data for the FIA who will analyse it. It is not yet known if the shield is 100% suitable. It is designed to deflect small objects, but not big heavy pieces such as a tyre. The other teams will be given the shield to test in the following races.
Fergal Walsh
Grand Prix of Belgium
G. Zhou
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Replies (3)
Login to replyJoeGreen84
Posts: 30
im on the fence with this. In certain circumstances it would have made no difference but what would have happened if Pascal Wehrlin Vs Button at monaco had been more substantial. Would it have hindered the marshals geting him out? only time will tell i guess
f1fan0101
Posts: 1,804
We need confidence it will work.. but there is always flaws
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
The shield is different from the Halo. If my memory serves me, its more like a bigger windshield, and wont hamper the exit of a driver from the cockpit as much as the Halo would've.