Renault drivers reveal retro helmets for F1’s 1000th race

Renault Formula 1 drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Daniel Ricciardo have unveiled retro-inspired one-off helmet designs at this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix.

As per the regulations, drivers are usually only permitted one change of helmet each season, but they have all been given special permission to run a unique design if they wish as part of celebrations to mark F1’s 1000th grand prix this weekend in China.

Renault pair Hulkenberg and Ricciardo have opted for a pair of striking designs that each include a nod back to F1’s past.

Hulkenberg’s helmet retains his traditional yellow theme which also features an old-style Renault sticker, paintbrush lines and gaffer tape. Ricciardo’s design is grey with a single black paint line, and both are completed with stone chip markings.

They are among the first drivers to reveal their one-off helmets, with Williams driver George Russell and Haas’ Romain Grosjean also showing off their designs on social media ahead of the third round of the season.

So, in honour of @F1 reaching 1000 races, this weekend’s lid is...

Half my @jpmontoya inspired design from where it all began back in 2006

Half my current GR63 design from 2019

Let me know what you think! #F1 #ChineseGP @WilliamsRacing #Race1000 pic.twitter.com/a9fwY7eHC9

— George Russell (@GeorgeRussell63) April 11, 2019

#race1000 we are coming #r8g #ChineseGP@BellRacingHQ @adripaviot@rich_energy pic.twitter.com/UCwefyWeGe

— Romain Grosjean (@RGrosjean) April 9, 2019

Toro Rosso rookie Alexander Albon will also use a helmet inspired by the first Thailand F1 driver Prince Bira, though he is yet to unveil his design, while Red Bull will run retro Mobil 1 logos on its RB15 cars.

Close up of those lids! #RSspirit #ChineseGP #Race1000 pic.twitter.com/x5OkjJhX84

— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) April 11, 2019