Teams pushing to have final head protection decision

Formula One's governing body, the FIA has promised to announce its intentions regarding the head protection systems before the Monaco GP. Teams are understood to be pushing for a rapid final decision, as the design for the 2017 contender is already in full swing.

Many different solutions have been tested over the last months. Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull had their own versions and FIA also trialled different options, already since 2012.

Two concepts have been tried out on track so far: the Red Bull canopy version and the so called halo version of Ferrari and Mercedes. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

The canopy concept is considered visually more elegant and it also provides better protection for smaller flying parts. However, there are still concerns and question marks around the visibility in rainy conditions. The biggest problem with the windscreen design is the way it affects the cooling of the car and the airflow flying onto the rear wing.

"Almost the whole airflow into that usually goes into the airbox is diverted. It goes over it," said Force India technical chief Andy Green.

"The engine gets less air and the rear wing gets worse airflow. Who has cooling channels inside the airbox will have to move them into the sidepods."

The halo system is expected to come up as the winning solution. However, some differing designs are still being investigated, and the final version to be introduced for 2017 may be rather different from what Ferrari have tried during winter testing. The structure should be made of titanium instead of steel. Its form is expected to be similar to the Mercedes-presented one which looked more aggressive and a bit more elegant.

Race director Charlie Whiting wants to announce the final regulation regarding the system at the following technical meeting which is scheduled before the Monaco venue.