The Halo is a protective barrier in Formula 1 that helps to prevent large objects and debris from entering the cockpit of a single-seat racing car
Formula One often witnesses new technology and innovation in the pursuit of fast laps and reliability. One recent and very visible addition to improving car safety is the Halo, a tubular frame that surrounds the car’s cockpit. The Halo was introduced to F1 in 2018, when it also became compulsory in other FIA-sanctioned open-cockpit classes, such as Formula E, F2, F3, and F4.
Halo improves safety for drivers by preventing large objects from entering the car’s cockpit. While crash helmets are effective at preventing head injuries in most incidents, a few high-profile accidents involving larger objects revealed that more could be done to reduce the risk of serious injury in crashes. The halo head-protection device has been one of the single biggest success stories of Formula 1’s constant quest to improve safety since the death of Ayrton Senna in 1994.
Halo has emerged as the life-saver in multiple F1 crashes
Halo is credited with saving multiple lives including Lewis Hamilton’s life at the 2021 Italian Grand Prix. After a collision with championship rival Max Verstappen. Besides Hamilton, at the end of the 2020 season, Romain Grosjean survived a fiery crash at the Bahrain GP that saw his Haas crash through an Armco barrier. The Halo showed signs of damage from the barrier that would otherwise have been inflicted on Grosjean’s helmet and is certain to have saved his life.
In the 2018, Belgian Grand Prix, where Charles Leclerc’s Sauber was struck by Fernando Alonso’s airborne McLaren. Both Alonso Leclerc credited the halo for possibly saving their lives.
Recently, Alfa Romeo driver, Zhou Guanyu credited the Halo for saving his life after a horrific crash at the British Grand Prix in Silverstone. “The Halo saved me today and it goes to show that every step we take in improving our cars has real, valuable results. I’m keener than ever to get back on track and do what I love: I’m fit and I’m looking forward to Austria next week” – Zhou wrote on social media, stressing once again on the importance of the Halo.
More Formula One News
- Lewis Hamilton doesn’t support IOC’s decision on Black Lives Matter gear during Olympics
- Max Verstappen left surprised as he reaches 100 race milestone with Red Bull
- Damon Hill left in awe after Lewis Hamilton racks up 100 poles in F1 ahead of 2021 Spanish GP
Follow our dedicated Formula One page for instant Formula One news and updates
