Formula One: Vettel calls for common sense over 'Halo'

Sebastian Vettel made a dramatic and emotional plea for common sense and humanity to prevail on Thursday as Formula One drivers debated the introduction of a semi-enclosed safety cockpit. Speaking at a scheduled news conference ahead of this weekend's German Grand Prix, the four-time world champion Ferrari driver said he was surprised to hear that other drivers were unsure about supporting the introduction of the controversial 'halo' next season. "We don't like the look of it, but I don't think there is anything that justifies death," he said. "We've always learnt from what happened, incidents on track, and tried to improve. "It will be the first time in human history that we have learned the lesson, but we don't change. I think it is up to us that it does happen -- otherwise I think we would be quite stupid." Vettel spoke out ahead of a meeting later Thursday in Geneva of F1's Strategy Group which is expected to vote on the introduction of the device next year. During the news conference, it was clear that the drivers were divided on the issue. Frenchman Romain Grosjean had earlier told reporters that he would vote against it. Vettel said earlier drivers' discussions had indicated that they were in favour of the halo's introduction. "I am a bit surprised because it sounded as if we were clear about what we want in the future," he said. "We had a vote amongst the drivers and I think 90 or 95 per cent voted for it, so I don't know why all of a sudden it comes up the way it does. I think it gives the wrong impression." The drivers attended a presentation last weekend at the Hungarian Grand Prix which claimed that the halo may have saved 17 per cent more drivers involved in accidents. Vettel added that he believed the sport's ruling body, the International Motoring Federation (FIA), may force the halo into use. "I think ultimately the FIA can do what they want," he said. "On safety grounds, they can do what they want. "I think the message is clear, the feedback from the drivers, except from the odd one or two here or there, has been fairly clear." Under current regulations, it is understood that the Strategy Group's decision would be seen only as a recommendation to the F1 Commision, where a unanimous vote of support would be required.