Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsSafety

Red Bull working on canopy head-protection design

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Red Bull Racing has submitted to the FIA a design study of its own destined to offer safer head-protection.

In the past months, Formula 1 engineers have been working with stress experts to determine a viable canopy solution which could eventually be integrated into the 2017 rules package.

The FIA has been conducting research and testing on various head-protection designs, stepping up its efforts in the wake of Jules Bianchi and Indycar driver Justin Wilson's accidents and subsequent fatal head injuries.

Mercedes has elaborated a 'halo' concept which, although in its first iteration, many feel represents a viable option.

According to Christian Horner, Red Bull has now offered a design which combines glass material and carbon.

"Obviously head protection is crucial," underlined Horner.

"Red Bull is making another submission for a canopy that we believe will be a safer option. It's more of a canopy than a halo. But it needs to be tested, which hopefully can be done very quickly.

"We have a committed a design study on evolving the FIA's theme, and we feel there's a viable solution."

Former F1 driver and Sky Sports consultant Anthony Davidson had the opportunity to test Mercedes' 'halo' concept in the simulator, and expressed no major reservations.

"I did a couple of laps in the simulator with one of the early iterations and it didn't feel too bad for me, I'm used to driving a closed cockpit anyway so I still have way better visibility than driving a full canopy sports car.

"The central support was a mild distraction, in the virtual world at least. I think in reality you will get used to it, just like you get used to a central windscreen wiper being there on a sports car.

"I know it is not directly in front of your face, but it is amazing how you do adapt and get used to things."

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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.