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The introduction of the halo system could be postponed after a narrow majority of drivers voted against its introduction for the 2018 season.
With Formula One keeping on top of safety standards, plans to introduce cockpit protection got underway in late 2015. However with the teams voting against the system being introduced in 2017 due to insufficient testing, the concept was delayed until 2018.
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It now appears that the 2018 option may be at risk as a majority of the drivers voted against its introduction in a FIA survey. The call for head protection comes after the recent fatal accidents of Jules Bianchi and Justin Wilson in F1 and IndyCar respectively.
It is reported by Auto Motor und Sport that the FIA wrote to all 22 drivers asking for a final opinion. 16 responded, 7 against the halo, 5 for it, and 4 with no judgement. The halo has received criticism from many fans worldwide who have labeled it "ugly".
The FIA will seek alternative options if the halo can't be decided on. Red Bull designed a cockpit screen which they tested in Russia of last year for a single lap. However, it would have a significant impact on aerodynamics, and therefore all options need to be explored and laid out before a final decision is made.
Fergal Walsh
Azerbaijan Grand Prix
C. Sainz jr
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