Mercedes is set to run the Halo cockpit protection device on Nico Rosberg’s W07 in free practice at this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, according to Motorsport.com.

Despite the FIA pushing to launch the system as early as 2017, Formula One’s Strategy Group eventually voted against its introduction for next year, though it unanimously agreed to have a form of front cockpit protection by 2018.

Following concern over the lack of testing with Halo - only Ferrari and Red Bull have trialled it for a total of four installation laps - the sport’s governing body wants all drivers to have at least one practice session with the device on their car before the end of the 2016 season.

The report says the FIA is especially anxious to hear Rosberg’s feedback on visibility while travelling through Spa-Francorchamps' Eau Rouge, a corner seen as potentially critical in that realm due to its high gradient change.

From Ferrari’s very first Halo test, Rosberg has been openly in favour of the device and admitted to being "disappointed" by the Strategy Group’s decision to delay its introduction for 2017.

GALLERY: F1 drivers on summer break

How Eric Boullier keeps McLaren on its toes

Pascal Wehrlein interview: The rookie who wants to lead

F1i Classic - Mayhem, monsoon and the mother of all Belgian Grand Prix

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Julien Billiotte

Recent Posts

Sainz left puzzled by double crash drama in rainy São Paulo

Carlos Sainz was left scratching his head after a disastrous Sunday at the Sao Paulo…

57 mins ago

Alonso pushed through agonizing pain to complete Sao Paulo GP

Fernando Alonso braved both physical agony and mechanical challenges in the Sao Paulo Grand Prix,…

2 hours ago

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

17 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

18 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

20 hours ago

Leclerc left with ‘mixed feelings’ after disappointing Sao Paulo GP

Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…

21 hours ago