F1 safety: Titanium 'Halo 2' to make test debut

Austria - The development of the 'Halo' is entering its decisive phase, with an updated version to make its debut in practice this weekend in Austria (July 1-3 2016).

The running of the controversial cockpit protection, in titanium finish this time rather than naked carbon, will be done by Ferrari, Germany's Auto Motor und Sport claims.

The news that 'Halo 2' will make its track debut at the Red Bull Ring at the beginning of the race weekend was confirmed by Matteo Bonciani, the FIA's spokesman.

Added driver safety

It is reported that, for the updated titanium version, the structure has been moved forwards slightly, so that the driver's head cannot impact it in a crash.

If Friday's test goes well, the concept will be forwarded to a meeting of technical bosses scheduled ahead of the forthcoming British grand prix later in July.

READ: FIA boss Todt - 'Halo' on all single seaters

Formula 1 legend Niki Lauda, however, warned that although the mandatory 'Halo' race debut for 2017 now appears inevitable, the sport must be careful not to compromise its DNA.

"If you go too far with these things, it's no wonder that fewer people are watching these days," the Mercedes team chairman told the British magazine Motor Sport.

"If someone says he wants to make $40-million a year, with an easy car to drive and no risk, this is not reality."