Magnussen opposes 'halo' introduction

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Kevin Magnussen is no fan of the 'Halo' cockpit safety device the FIA is contemplating on introducing sometime in the future.

Drivers were polled late last year by the governing body; 16 drivers responded to the FIA's request, and 7 were against the Halo, 5 in favour, and 4 abstained. The Haas driver was among those who voted against the concept.

"I voted no," Haas driver Magnussen confirmed to the Danish newspaper BT.

"I think it is against formula one's DNA. Halo undoubtedly reduces the risk if you were hit by a wheel or debris from another car.

"But I just think that there are many other things we should look at first to improve safety."

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The FIA focused on cockpit safety as a result of Jules Bianchi's tragic accident in Japan in 2014, as well as Justin Wilson's fatal injury sustained in an Indycar race in 2015.

Magnussen believes Bianchi's death, given its unfortunate circumstances, would not have been prevented the 'Halo'.

"What happened to Jules was deeply tragic," he said.

"And also bad luck. The sport must learn from what happened in Suzuka, but a Halo would not have changed anything about that accident."

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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.