F1 driver ‘very lucky’: Zhao thanks Lifesaver Halo after horror crash

F1 driver ‘very lucky’
Zhou thanked Halo for saving lives after the horror accident

7/4/2022 6:39 am

With these pictures, it’s incredible that Guanyu Zhao can be reported fit just hours after his serious crash at the Silverstone Grand Prix. The Formula 1 driver will fight for points again next Sunday. As the Alfa Romeo driver knows, the main reason for this is his life preserver.

After his horrific crash at Silverstone, Formula 1 driver Guanyu Tso looks back on the once-controversial cockpit safety that saved his life. “Halo saved me,” said the Chinese, who qualified for the next race in Austria next Sunday. Images of an Alfa Romeo taking off upside down at a safety fence have sparked horror and concern for the health of a 23-year-old at the British Grand Prix. “It was a serious accident and I’m glad to be OK,” Joe said.

Again, the “halo” roll bar, which has been mandatory in Formula 1 since 2018, has come to fruition. Protected by a seven-kilogram titanium ring over his head, Zhou survived a terrifying slide on asphalt and gravel and an impact with a fence without major injuries. “Without the halo he wouldn’t be there anymore. He’s very lucky of course,” said world champion Max Verstappen after watching video of the crash.

Before the “halo” was introduced, there were heated debates among drivers, some of whom feared the restricted view. “Today showed again that Halo really belongs in Formula 1,” said Verstappen. Alpha Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur said: “The work to improve safety in our sport has never been done. This day reminds us how important it is.”

Two African elephants stand side by side

Cockpit security was developed in response to many serious incidents. In 2009, Felipe Massa of Brazil suffered severe head injuries from metal pouring in Hungary. In 2009, 18-year-old Henry Surtees was hit by a flying tire at Brands Hatch in Formula 2.

According to the world association FIA, “Halo” must withstand the weight of two African elephants (about twelve tons for two male animals) and an entire suitcase, which is shot at a speed of 225 kilometers per hour. “Safety is our priority,” insisted FIA president Mohammed bin Sulayem at Silverstone. Williams driver Alexander Alban also survived a serious crash at the start without major injuries and was released from hospital on Sunday evening.

Sunday’s “halo” prevented things from getting worse in Formula 2’s junior class. In the collision, Norwegian Dennis Hagar’s car landed cockpit-high on Roy Nissani’s car. The Israeli was unharmed by the titanium band. After his Formula 1 victory at Silverstone, Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz said, “The halo could have saved two lives today,” and with the aim of extensive safety measures, he stressed: “I’m very happy to be in Formula 1 at this time.”