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Design for life - FIA clarify helmet colour clampdown rule changes

Published by Christine

FIA clarify helmet colour clampdown rule changes
Peter Fox/Getty Images

The FIA's recent revelation that they're set to clampdown on drivers changing their helmets too often was met with mixed responses - some keen on the idea of easier identification, others upset at the lack of creativity inspired by the governing body. Now, the FIA have clarified exactly what the stipulations will be regarding this particular piece of regulation.

"In order for drivers to be easily distinguished from one another whilst they are on the track, the crash helmet of each driver must be presented in substantially the same livery at every Event during a Championship season."

This means one-off designs aren't allowed, such as the glow-in-the-dark edition of Jean-Éric Vergne's helmet that was run in Singapore 2014. It also means special editions for anniversary races or charity appeals are unlikely to appear again. Drivers will be able to tweak the design if they change sponsors, as long as they are running broadly the same colours and are still identifiable by fans.

Sebastian Vettel, who was widely considered to be the reason behind the rule change, has said he's not planning to take too much notice. "I think it's a joke to be honest. There are more important things to decide for the future and that seems to be the only one they can conclude on. I don't know what is the penalty. If it is a little fine with money for charity, then I am happy to keep changing my helmet."