Indisputable Evidence for Cockpit Safety

November 30th, 2020

Photo via F1 TV

Romain Grosjean emerges from the flaming wreckage formerly known as his car

From the evolution of crash helmets and firesuits to the implementation of rollbars, wheel tethers, and cockpit safety; Formula 1 and the FIA (governing body) have always prided themselves on being at the forefront of motorsport safety.

"Recognizing that motor sport is inherently dangerous, the FIA has, throughout its history, worked ceaselessly to improve safety at all levels of competition." - excerpt from the FIA mission statement

Their most recent major safety development is a cockpit safety device known as the "halo." Named for it's "halo" like appearance over the driver's head. When it was first introduced, many were quick to question it's effectiveness and aesthetic design. The FIA's priorities, however, always side with safety over aesthetics. Multiple designs were thoroughly tested before the final halo was homologated for fitment and competition integration.

Photo by Ercole Columbo courtesy of Ferrari

Formula 1's "halo" cockpit safety device - 2017 development testing

The development of a cockpit safety device was brought to action after the sudden passing of Formula 1 driver Jules Bianchi in 2014 and INDYCAR driver Justin Wilson in 2015. Both drivers were killed after receiving a significant external force to their exposed heads. Jules was struck by a large recovery tractor and Justin was struck with 200mph carbon fiber debris. While most of the driver is protected in the car, open wheel designs leave the driver's head exposed.

Photos via RacingJunk.com and FOTO STUDIO COLOMBO

Justin Wilson (Left) and Jules Bianchi (Right)

In the 2018 season, the Halo cockpit safety device was fully implemented across all FIA open wheel series, including Formula 1. It was first put to the test in Belgium when the McLaren of Fernando Alonso went over the top of Charles Leclerc's Alfa Romeo. Many experts credited the new safety device for saving his life. Despite this, the nature of the accident led some fans to still question the role the halo played in protecting the driver.

Photo by Mark Thompson via Getty Images

Fernando Alonso's McLaren flies over the Alfa Romeo of Charles Leclerc

At the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix, fans, critics, engineers, and drivers alike witnessed, without question, the absolute necessity for cockpit safety.

The HAAS of Romain Grosjean veered headlong into a stretch of exposed Armco barriers at 137mph, bursting into a massive ball of fire, splitting in two and sending his cockpit headfirst through the metal barrier at a force of 53g.

The halo took the force of the impact, diverting the metal rails away from his head and saving his life. After 20 seconds in the burning wreckage, Grosjean emerged from the flaming cockpit and was pulled to safety by the incredibly rapid safety crew, largely unharmed. He suffered minor burns to his hands and feet and is expected to be released from the hospital just 2 days after his accident.

Photo by Andy Hone via Motorsport Images/LAT Images

Romain Grosjean is pulled from the wreckage by the safety crew

In an incident that could have likely left Romain Grosjean dead just a few years ago, he was able to walk away largely unscathed. His survival was not strictly a "miracle" or "luck," it was a direct result of the ongoing safety developments of the FIA and motorsport engineers.

"I wasn’t for the halo some years ago but I think it’s the greatest thing we brought to Formula 1 and without it I wouldn’t be able to speak to you today. Thanks to all the medical staff at the circuit, at the hospital..." - Romain Grosjean in a message to fans following his wreck.

Photo via Sky Sports F1

Grosjean's cockpit wedged in the destroyed barriers, supported by the halo

Drivers and teams praised the FIA, safety crews and the halo for saving Grosjean's life.

"To see him walk away from that crash is frankly unbelievable. I think that’s the worst crash I’ve ever seen and for him to be alive is truly a miracle.” - Kevin Magnussen, Grosjean's teammate

“Unbelievable, had the halo not been there I am sure it would’ve been an incredibly different outcome” - George Russel, competitor who saw the accident firsthand

"It just goes to show all the systems that we developed, everything worked hand in hand — the halo, the barriers, the seat belts, everything worked how it should. Without just one of those things, it could have been a very different outcome.” - Alan van der Merwe, medical car driver, first on the scene

Formula 1 and the FIA continue to be at the forefront of Motorsport safety and have undoubtedly saved lives in their ongoing dedication to keep Motorsports as safe as possible.

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