Massa says "proper test" needed for Halo decision

So far, the cockpit protection system has only been tested briefly during installation laps by three drivers: Ferrari duo Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel, and Red Bull junior Pierre Gasly.

The Halo will not be introduced in Formula 1 next year, with the FIA having delayed it at least until 2018. The ruling body has also said other solutions will be considered.

"It's very difficult to answer without having tested it," said Massa when asked if it was right to delay its introduction.

"We need to put it in the car and not just do an installation lap. You need to do a proper test, which is the most important thing they need to start doing. And then you have a proper answer.

"If you put it in the car and do just an installation lap it doesn't work, it's not the right test."

The Williams driver added: "I think the most important thing is we need to understand if the Halo is really a big step forward. If it's a step forward it would be nice to have better safety in the car.

"But I think the most important thing is people to try it properly. I have never tried it, so how can I answer if it's the best thing or not?

"It would be nice to have it in the car and to try it at to see if the Halo changes anything for the visibility. I don't think they need to not put it in the car because it looks ugly.

"Safety is more important and I think people would get used to is quickly."

Massa reckons it should be exclusively down to the FIA to decide when the Halo is introduced.

"On safety, I believe the FIA needs to be the one to decide," he said. "I think on the safety, yes."

Additional reporting by Jamie Klein