Sebastian Vettel emphasizes the true message behind his helmet

On the first day of testing in Bahrain, Aston Martin driver Sebastian Vettel appeared with a brand new helmet in the colors of Ukraine, on which the flags of 250 countries are also displayed. However, the German recently stated that he would have preferred to avoid having to act in this way.

The German opened up about this gesture of support. I would have liked for the design of this helmet not to be necessary, states Vettel. It’s a strong sign that simply shows support. All the drivers gathered on Wednesday, and we thought it was an opportunity to demonstrate that we are united and taking a stand, declares the four-time world champion.

“It’s terrible what’s happening. It’s like a nightmare, and we don’t seem to wake up from it, that’s why I chose to follow this path with a simple yet effective helmet design,” he explains.

Adorned with two blue and yellow stripes, as well as the words “No War” and “Imagine,” the new helmet designed by Jens Munser Designs for Vettel alludes to the recent invasion of Ukraine. The designer had to clarify on social media regarding the choice of flags. Indeed, some internet users expressed outrage at the presence or absence of certain flags at the bottom of the helmet.

For example, the flag of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, an unrecognized region, appears on the helmet.

« At the bottom of the helmet, we just had the opportunity for a small symbol, to have all the flags of the world. » confesses the pilot. « I didn’t check all the flags but apparently there were some problems. So I removed the small sticker because some people got upset and I think it spoils the message. The message is obviously that the whole world should be united and I believe it is united against war. We have grown over time and I think we all appreciate that. It’s like a nightmare, a shock to see these images and what’s happening in the news. » deplores Vettel.