Hulkenberg unaffected by F1 'halo' censorship

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Nico Hulkenberg says he isn't bothered by F1's decision to edit out from a recent official his negative comments on the Halo safety device.

Following the announcement of the Halo's introduction in 2018, opinions diverged among the drivers with many opposing the element's mandatory use from next season.

"I was never a big supporter of Halo or additional head protection," said the Renault driver.

"It will protect against the one in a million freak accident, but the tethers that keep the tyres on get better every year so I'm not sure this additional protection is necessary and we're compromising the looks quite a lot," he added.

A short video was released with various drivers commenting on the subject but F1 took the "editorial decision" not to include any negative remarks.

Russell not the least bit bothered by his 'Halo'

Hulkenberg's criticism was among the removed content, but the German did not have an issue with the censorship.

"I'm quite relaxed about it. There's no bad blood," he said.

"It's just like it is in life: opinions differ."

Mercedes test driver Georges Russell tested a Halo this week in Budapest, and gave the device two thumbs up.

The FIA will allow teams next season to add their own aerodynamic profile to the basic Halo element, as long as the changes remain within the regulations.

There's also talk that FOM could install rearward-facing cameras on the device to provide an unprecedented view of the drivers' faces.

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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.