FORMULA ONE’s governing body has issued strict new guidelines regarding drivers’ crash helmets.
The FIA will make the new helmets mandatory for next season and comes after a decade of research.
The new design will improve drivers’ safety by giving them better protection from flying debris and increased energy absorption.
The shell of the helmets are also stronger to prevent crushing while the visors are also strong enough to withstand being shot by an air-rifle.
Laurent Mekies, FIA Safety Director, said: “The current top-end helmets are already the safest in the world but the new standard will take them to the next level.
“It is important for all of our safety research that we continually strive to improve and this is why we are requiring all manufacturers to meet this tougher standard for our championships.”
FIA, which worked with helmet manufacturers Stilo, Bell Racing, Schuberth and Arai during the research phase.
Stephane Cohen, Bell Racing Helmets Chairman, added: “The area of testing will be expanded compared to what we currently enjoy, which means that the overall protection of those helmets could be considered better and as usual.
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“The FIA will be at the forefront of helmet protection technology. This will be the most advanced standard in the world without any possible discussion.”
After its introduction in F1, the design is likely to be rolled out across all of the FIA’s motorsport series.
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