In fact, drivers and fans alike are having a hell of a time with the head protection device, which makes its debut at this weekend's season-opening Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.

While few begrudge the safety aspects of the device fitted to cockpits of all 20 cars this year, drivers have complained about visibility while travelling in excess of 300km/h at Albert Park.

And fans reckon the new addition not only dramatically changes the sleek Formula One design they have grown to love but also ensures they have no idea who's behind the wheel.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff famously said he wanted to remove the halo with a chainsaw when they launched their 2018 car last month.

The starting lights at Albert Park even had to be shifted by officials this weekend because drivers couldn't see them due to the controversial regulation change fitted above their eyesight.

Two teams have at least tried to make the most of the new feature by plastering it with sponsors.

In a cheeky dig, Force India and McLaren have adorned their halo, which has been compared to a giant thong or "flip-flop", with footwear companies.

Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel reckons he has a way to help fans identify drivers now they can no longer rely on their coloured helmets, which are obscured by the halo.

"We can't negotiate the position of the halo, we can't put it at the back of the car so maybe it should be up to us to design the halo, just to add an element to what makes it different from the rest," the Ferrari champion said.

FIA race director Charlie Whiting doesn't believe the halo stops fans identifying drivers.

"We've made sure that all the numbers on the cars are in exactly the same places (as last year) ... I'm fairly convinced that fans won't need to resort to try and identify drivers helmet colours to know who's in the car," he told Sky Sports.

Australian Associated Press