The F1 Strategy Group met on Wednesday to discuss a number of topics related to Formula One, including the introduction of the head protection system in 2018. For the first time ever, the meeting included all of the teams, allowing observers from Renault, Toro Rosso, Sauber and Haas.
The biggest topic of the Strategy Group meeting was the head protection. The first free practice session of the British Grand Prix saw the first track debut of the newly proposed Shield concept tested on Sebastian Vettel’s Ferrari. However, the test was cut short because it made him feel dizzy. On the other hand, the Halo concept received the unanimous support from the Strategy Group in July 2016.
This continues to be the case, as the members unanimously agree with the system. The FIA has confirmed that the Halo concept will be introduced to the cars in 2018. A statement from the FIA read:
“Following the unanimous agreement of the Strategy Group, in July 2016, to introduce additional frontal protection for Formula One and the repeated support from the drivers, the FIA confirms the introduction of the Halo for 2018. With the support of the teams, certain features of its design will be further enhanced.
Having developed and evaluated a large number of devices over the past five years, it had become clear that the Halo presents the best overall safety performance.”
This wasn’t the only topic discussed at the meeting. The 2021 power units and a collection of other improvements to the sport were also debated. A Working Group designed to control costs of the sport also received unanimous support. The group will consist of the teams, FIA and F1 commercial rights holders.
