'Shield' safety device to make debut at Monza

The FIA, Formula 1's governing body, will push ahead with track tests for the new driver head protection known as 'Shield'.

Earlier this week, an F1 Strategy Group meeting yielded a decision on cockpit safety, recommending the shelving of the 'halo' concept trialed last season in favour of a screen shield device resembling the component Red Bull Racing designed last year.

With the controversial 'Halo' concept now shelved, it was revealed last week that the FIA now intends to instead debut a transparent alternative next year.

Development of the safety concept will continue with computer and laboratory testing, with a full-scale track test scheduled during free practice at Monza and Singapore later this year.

• Magnussen: cockpit 'shield' could add safety risk

"As far as I know, we will test it before it becomes mandatory," said Sergio Perez.

"From an aesthetic point of view, this solution looks better than Halo," the Force India driver admitted.

"Probably from safety, it is not as effective as Halo, but the FIA will work to find the optimal solution."

Indeed, while some drivers are supportive of the push for better cockpit protection, others are not.

"Let's talk about something else," said Renault's Nico Hulkenberg when asked in Sochi.

Max Verstappen added: "They should leave the cars as they are. Formula 1 is about racing with open cars and there is always some risk."

And he said: "Of course the FIA listens to what we have to say, but in the end it's not the drivers who will decide."

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