Safety is one of Formula 1's main priorities. Every race, every test, and every rule is designed around safety. While racing is the name of the game, Formula 1 is smart enough to know that the well-being of their teams, Fans, and drivers must be the focus of their organization. The creation of the Halo device was motivated by safety and the desire to ensure that the driver's head and neck are protected from debris that may be kicked up during an accident, debris that may even include other cars.
Formula 1 faces tremendous fan backlash
Since Formula 1 first floated the idea of the Halo Device there was fan backlash.
Fans complained immediately upon seeing rough drawings of the device, complaining that it compromises the integrity of the car and open wheel racing. The Halo device will affect the aerodynamics of the car, not to mention the look of what is considered to be the most beautiful cars in motorsport. Now that it is official and the Halo device will be used in the 2018 season, fans have been even more adamant that the device will detract from the pinnacle of motorsports.
Formula 1 has held their ground, however. They have stated and restated the fact that the Halo device has been implemented for driver safety. Examples were cited, such as when Romain Grosjean came over the top of Fernando Alonso, nearly decapitating him, along with several other times that debris rose from the track to hit drivers in the helmet.
The Halo device also protects drivers from sliding their cars under things, such as rescue vehicles, providing a framework that protects them on several levels. Despite knowing this, however, and despite the fact that several drivers have voiced their support of the device, fans continue to revolt against the new look.
At the end of the day safety trumps public opinion
While fans continue to loudly voice their disapproval, Formula 1 remains true to their dedication to safety. The Halo device is capable of withstanding massive impacts from all angles and can handle debris even as large as a wheel coming at the driver at a speed of 225 km/hr.
The Halo is in fact so strong that it can withstand more force than the roll bar and can offer the driver protection not just from oncoming debris, but also a roll or collision with the wall. While teams and drivers also fought the Halo at first, the new design has since been embraced and all teams and drivers support the usage of the device that just may save lives.
