30/08/2018
NEWS STORY
Since it was first revealed that Formula One was to lead the way and introduce the Halo device, Nico Hulkenberg has been one of the leading critics, the German arguing that it goes against the spirit of the sport.
However, speaking to reporters at Monza - a circuit that has witnessed more than its fair share of tragedy over the years - and just four days after the first corner incident which many insist proves the worth of the device, the Renault driver admits to now having "mixed feelings".
"I think whilst I am still not a big fan of the halo and the device, I have to see the facts and admit that it does bring something to F1," he said, "especially the safety we appreciate in the car.
"So, divided, mixed feelings about it still," he added, "but it is not down to me anyway, it is what it is.
"For sure it has proven pretty useful and a good device," he admitted. "We can only speculate on what would have happened without it, but it looks pretty clear from the point the tyre marks were all over the halo. So from that point of view it has done a very good job to keep the head safe."
Clearly uneasy when asked if the device could have prevented the death of his close friend Jules Bianchi, Charles Leclerc replied: "For Jules, it would not have changed anything.
"Looking back at the images, we cannot know what will have happened without it, but obviously I was quite happy to have it over my head," he said of the Spa incident. "It deserves to be in F1 now. Whether it looks good or bad, I don't think that matters any more."