FIA reveals the strength of the Halo

On the build-up to the Hungarian Grand Prix, the FIA has given more insight into the controversial Halo that will feature on the 2018 cars. The decision to introduce it was met with criticism from fans, with some claiming that it will destroy the DNA of Formula 1. 

In a media briefing, the FIA revealed that the Halo is designed to withstand up to 15 times the weight of a Formula 1 car. It has also been designed to especially deter large objects heading towards a driver's head, and the risk percentage for smaller objects has lowered.

There have been some concerns over the exit time. With the introduction of the device, the maximum time a driver is required to exit the car in an emergency has been raised from 5 seconds to 8-10 seconds. Tests show that a driver will have more space when exiting the cockpit if it is overturned, with less chance of the driver's head touching the ground. 

In recent years, it was found that the Halo tested to have a positive effect when applied to the accidents of Henry Surtees and Justin Wilson, who both sadly lost their lives due to head related injuries. Race director Charlie Whiting added that the Halo on 2018 cars will look different to what we have seen so far.

Fairings will also be allowed around the device, and teams will be enabled to colour it whatever shade they wish. Sponsors will also be permitted on the Halo, meaning the feared eyesore may not be as strong as believed. 

Fergal Walsh

Replies (3)

Login to reply
  • But how many sponsors can you really fit in a sensible way on it? Of course, teams like Force India will gladly accept that particular challenge.

    • + 0
    • Jul 27 2017 - 17:19
  • Funny, the driver still can get out of the car fast enough, because they raised the required minimum time. Like the flames are gone wait an extra 3-5 seconds before they start harming the driver because there is a halo on the car...

    • + 0
    • Jul 28 2017 - 07:47
  • RonLin210

    Posts: 5

    What is next... airbags ?

    • + 0
    • Jul 28 2017 - 10:14

AZ Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Local time 

AZAzerbaijan Grand Prix

Local time 

Test calendar

See full test schedule

World Championship standings 2026

Show full world champion standings

Related news

Give your opinion!

Will Bottas challenge Hamilton for the world championship in 2020?

Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix
Circuit
-
Spain
-
Bahrain
-
Bahrain
6 - Mar 8
Australia
13 - Mar 15
China
27 - Mar 29
Japan
10 - Apr 12
Bahrain
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia
1 - May 3
United States of America
22 - May 24
Canada
5 - Jun 7
Monaco
12 - Jun 14
Spain
See full schedule

Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix & Circuit
6 - Mar 8
Australia Albert Park
13 - Mar 15
27 - Mar 29
10 - Apr 12
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia Jeddah Street Circuit
1 - May 3
United States of America Miami International Autodrome
22 - May 24
5 - Jun 7
Monaco Monte Carlo
12 - Jun 14
See full schedule
show sidebar