Formula One driver Zhou Guanyu says halo device 'saved me' during high-speed crash

By Matias Grez, CNN

Updated 0838 GMT (1638 HKT) July 4, 2022

Zhou Guanyu has credited the halo for saving his life.

(CNN)Formula One driver Zhou Guanyu has credited his car's halo protection device for saving his life after he was involved in a horrific high-speed crash during the first lap of Sunday's British Grand Prix.

Zhou was one of several drivers involved in the turn one crash, which resulted in his Alfa Romeo flipping over and skidding across the track and onto the gravel, before smashing into the fencing.The halo, which is made from titanium, forms protection around the cockpit and was introduced in 2018. Although it was initially met with some criticism from drivers, several drivers have since credited the halo for preventing serious injuries.«I'm ok, all clear,» Zhou tweeted later on Sunday, along with a selfie. «Halo saved me today. Thanks everyone for your kind messages!»READ: Sainz secures first F1 victoryRead MoreZhou Guanyu was remarkably later given the all clear.Zhou's car ended up wedged between the tire barrier and catch fencing, which is there to protect fans. The awkward nature of the car's placement meant it took some time to extract him.Mercedes' George Russell, who made contact with Zhou during the collision, immediately got out of his car once it had come to a stop and ran over to check on Zhou.The rookie, who is the first Chinese driver in F1, was eventually pictured being stretchered away by emergency medical personnel and was later given the all clear after being assessed at the medical center.Williams driver Alex Albon was also involved in the crash and was flown to a local hospital for checks. He was later given the all clear, his team confirmed on Twitter. The race was red flagged and