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Formula 1 Halo device – What is it and how can it save lives during crashes?

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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.

The Halo is one of the newest innovations in F1 (Getty)

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.

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Image Credits – Planet F1

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.

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Sarbik Dutta

My heart races on the F1 track and tennis courts, translating the adrenaline of each moment into words. While F1's speed thrills and tennis's finesse captivate me, my passion doesn't stop there. As a devoted follower of cricket, football, and various Olympic sports, I find myself engulfed in the highs and lows of these games. Through my writing, I aim to share the stories behind the stats, the emotions fueling the victories, and the struggles that define the journey of athletes across diverse disciplines. Being a voice that echoes the fervor of these sports is a privilege I cherish every day.

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Tags: Formula 1