Newey backs 'shield' concept but time is running out

Red Bull design guru Adrian Newey favours Formula 1's 'shield' cockpit safety device over the halo concept, but fears that time may be running out for its introduction in 2018.

In the past year, Formula 1, along with the FIA, has been evaluating concepts to improve a driver's cockpit safety and insure a form of protection from an impact with a foreign object or debris.

The 'halo' was trialed last year but did not lead to a consensus among the teams and drivers over its implementation, because of its awkward looking esthetics among other reasons.

Talks in Monaco between teams and the FIA have now led to confirmation that the 'shield' concept will be trialed during free practice at the Italian Grand Prix at Monza later this summer.

Shield' safety device to make debut at Monza

"I think it's a better solution than the halo, that's for sure," Newey told Autosport.

"I think the first thing with the shield is to check the visibility, to see if it's a viable option. If the distortion is too much, then it's a non-starter, obviously.

"In terms of then having a closed cockpit, I don't think that's such a big thing to be honest. But I think it's getting quite tight for 2018."

But Newey believes F1 should also focus on other areas of safety, such as preventing lost wheels or broken parts flying off a car.

"I feel that there are things that can be done to minimise the risk, particularly from flying wheels or debris," Newey added.

"The tethers on the wheels aren't 100% at the moment, we still occasionally see wheels coming off.

"IndyCar has tethered other things, such as the front wing, nosebox and rear wing, and so forth.

"That seems to me to be a good interim solution.

"We've raised it, but there's not been a lot of action so far. I guess it's all in discussion."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.