Barrichello Not Using HANS in Race

Rubens Barrichello is not using Formula One's mandatory new Head and Neck Support safety system in today's Malaysian Grand Prix, it has been revealed.

The Brazilian has been given special dispensation by FIA's medical delegate Sid Watkins to run without the system as it causes him too much discomfort while driving his car.

Barrichello, who started from fifth on the grid in his Ferrari, has partly-blamed the HANS device for his crash in the Australian Grand Prix two weeks ago claiming it caused him so much pain he lost concentration and control of his car.

Other drivers have also complained that the system, which sits around the drivers' shoulders, should only be made compulsory when all drivers are comfortable with it. An FIA statement issued 20 minutes before the start of today's race read: "The Stewards of the Meeting received a report submitted by the FIA Medical Delegate to the Race Director.

"This report concerned the complaints from the driver of car number 2 (Rubens Barrichello) in respect of wearing the HANS device. Further medical examination reports submitted by both the Chief Medical Officer and the FIA Medical Delegate were examined by the Stewards of the Meeting and the driver of car number 2 (Rubens Barrichello) was summoned.

"At the specific request of the driver, the Stewards of the Meeting considered a request for dispensation to race without the HANS device, which was supported by the recommendation of the FIA Medical Delegate.

"The Stewards of the Meeting have decide to permit the driver of car number 2 (Rubens Barrichello) to race without the HANS device, contrary to Article 101 of the 2003 FIA Sporting Regulations. It is clarified that this dispensation is for this race only and as the Team Manager has agreed that a suitable adaptation will be in place by the next race."