FIA confirms ’Aeroscreen’ under consideration

The FIA has now confirmed that Red Bull’s ’Aeroscreen’ concept is in the running to be introduced in formula one.

Daniel Ricciardo tested the windshield-style driver cockpit protection in the opening minutes of practice in Russia.

Earlier, the FIA’s preferred solution for 2017 was the Mercedes-devised ’halo’ concept that debuted on the Ferrari recently, but F1 race director Charlie Whiting has admitted he actually likes the look of Red Bull’s screen even more.

Auto Motor und Sport quoted him as saying that once all the tests are complete, the two solutions will be presented to the F1 Commission which will "decide what route we take".

Sebastian Vettel commented: "Neither are pretty, but the important thing is that they work."

Reigning champion Lewis Hamilton, however, worries that reducing the "risk" of being a F1 driver too much could affect the appeal of the sport to the fans.

He also hates the look of the ’Aeroscreen’.

"It looks like a bloody riot shield," said the Mercedes driver.

Others are less bothered.

"I don’t care if it’s an open or closed cockpit," said Williams’ Valtteri Bottas. "I don’t think it will change the sport.

"If we can reduce the serious accidents or injuries, that’s great, but I have no particular preference."