F1 to introduce controversial 'halo' cockpit head-protection system in 2018

The FIA has announced that Formula One cars from next year will be fitted with the 'halo' cockpit protection system.

The sport's governing body, following a meeting of the Formula One Strategy Group in Geneva on Wednesday, revealed it has given the go-ahead to introduce the concept next year.

The Halo, designed to reduce the risk of injury from debris or other objects striking a driver's head, was trialled by a number of teams during Grand Prix practice sessions last year.

"Following the unanimous agreement of the Strategy Group, in July 2016, to introduce additional frontal protection for Formula One and the repeated support from the drivers, the FIA confirms the introduction of the Halo for 2018. With the support of the teams, certain features of its design will be further enhanced," said FIA in a statement.

"Having developed and evaluated a large number of devices over the past five years, it had become clear that the Halo presents the best overall safety performance," the statement added.

However, three-time world champion Lewis Hamilton described the halo as the "worst-looking modification" in the sport's history.

The safety move from the FIA comes after British IndyCar drivers Justin Wilson and Henry Surtees, competing in Formula Two, were killed after debris from other accidents struck them on the helmet.