Ferrari has finally run the updated and revised version of its 'Halo' cockpit protection system, with Sebastian Vettel sampling the device in the opening free practice for the British Grand Prix.

The four-time world champion only completed an installation lap around Silverstone to check visibility. The titanium-made upgrade features a thinner upright and smaller joining section.

The Scuderia already had the device in Austria last weekend but only carried out static tests focussed on driver extraction.

Earlier this year, the FIA selected the Halo over Red Bull’s more elegant Aeroscreen concept to be introduced in 2017, with the governing body due to decide shortly whether it will be mandatory on all F1 cars next year.

Ferrari created a stir in winter testing when they rolled out the original version of the Halo in Barcelona, with the device immediately drawn mixed reactions.

Triple world champion Lewis Hamilton slammed it as the "worst looking mod in F1 history", while others like his Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg fully support its introduction.

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Julien Billiotte

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