The Halo divides the F1 paddock

The announcement of the implementation of Halo, this cockpit protection system, implemented in 2018, sparked strong reactions within the paddock of the F1. Several pilots have expressed a negative opinion on this safety element modifying the image of the car.

Max Verstappen was one of the most virulent while his team Red Bull had developed a version, the Shield, offering glass protection.

“I don’t like it even if we all have to respect the FIA’s decision, said Max Verstappen in the paddock of the Hungarian GP. The “Virtual Safety Car” has already made it possible to considerably reduce the risks of speeding under a yellow flag. The wheel mounts are also sturdy and are no longer lost so easily. If things fly around the car, it doesn't protect us. I really don't understand why we need this. »

Lewis Hamilton was more measured than Max Verstappen in his remarks and even encouraged the FIA ​​to implement him in the other single-seater championships.

“We knew it was going to happen ever since we talked about it, added Lewis Hamilton. When they mentioned 17% more effective security, it was hard to ignore. It’s clearly not pretty, as we’ve already said. The weight of the cars will also increase even though they are already too heavy compared to the brakes and I hope they make progress on that. »

“Seeing pilots hit in the head, it’s crazy to think how vulnerable we can be, underlined Lewis Hamilton. Our head is the most valuable part of our body and it is exposed. So I will not object to that. If this system enters F1, the other disciplines should also have it. »

Sebastian Vettel for his part clearly defended the implementation of the Halo, security being paramount for the resident of the Team Ferrari.

“There should be no doubt about its installation, commented Sebastian Vettel. If we had offered this protection to Justin Wilson (who died in a car accident),IndyCar in Pocono in 2015), he would have taken it. We can't go back, but it would be stupid and reckless to ignore it knowing that it can help in certain situations. »

The FIA ​​has already indicated that the Halo would be modified, thus improving the visual rendering on the cars.