F1 halo: Strategy Group votes against using device for 2017

Following a meeting of the Group in Geneva on Thursday it was determined the device lacked the required maturity to be fully implemented on F1 cars for 2017.

"It won't be in F1 next season," F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone told Autosport.

"We're going to have a good look at it.

"We felt despite the numerous tests conducted by the FIA, it hadn't been looked at deeply enough, and that it is going to require more time.

"We've also decided we will no longer be calling it the halo. We're simply going with head protection."

Ecclestone has also confirmed work will continue on Red Bull's aeroscreen, and insists F1 should not stand still when it comes to safety.

The FIA confirmed in a statement that some form of cockpit protection would be introduced for 2018, describing the halo as "the preferred option".

"The Strategy Group agreed unanimously that the 2018 season will see the introduction of frontal cockpit protection for Formula 1 cars in order to significantly enhance the safety of drivers," it said in the statement.

"It was decided that owing to the relatively short timeframe until the commencement of the 2017 Formula 1 season it would be prudent to use the remainder of this year and early next year to further evaluate the full potential of all options before final confirmation.

"This will include undertaking multiple on-track tests of the 'halo' system in practice sessions during the rest of this season and during the first part of the 2017 season.

"While the halo is currently the preferred option, as it provides the broadest solution to date, the consensus among the Strategy Group was that another year of development could result in an even more complete solution."

Ferrari first trialled the halo in pre-season testing at Barcelona, with its arrival causing an immediate divide in opinion amongst the drivers.

Although Ferrari continued to work with the FIA in refining the system - with the second-generation halo reverting to a titanium construction - opinion has remained split.

The FIA attempted to win over the drivers with a presentation last Friday ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, proclaiming there would be a 17% improvement in safety.

Even the likes of Lewis Hamilton, who previously derided the halo as "the worst-looking modification in F1 history", softened his stance after listening to the FIA's arguments.

The FIA did have the option of playing a trump card and implementing the halo on safety grounds, but Autosport understands FIA president Jean Todt opted not to go against the majority decision on this occasion.