Valtteri Bottas, the accomplished driver for the Stake Formula One Team KICK Sauber, unveiled a new racing helmet ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix.

The helmet highlights ocean conservation in the Mediterranean and the impactful work of global organisations Blue Marine Foundation and the Prince Albert of Monaco Foundation in the region.  

Designed by Tiffany Cromwell, a professional road and gravel cyclist and Bottas’s partner, the helmet spotlights the Mediterranean Sea’s stunning biodiversity yet fragile ecosystem. The underwater-themed livery features swimming wildlife such as monk seals, dolphins and sharks at the crown and mid-section of the helmet. Meanwhile, the base is decorated with Posidonia seagrass, representing how seagrass is the lungs of the ocean, and that without it, marine ecosystems would collapse. 

Set to be worn by Bottas throughout the 2024 Monaco Grand Prix and autographed by both Albert II, Prince of Monaco and Bottas, the helmet will later be auctioned at the live, annual Blue Marine Yacht Club Auction in Monaco on September 25, at the time of the Monaco Yacht Show. The proceeds will be equally distributed between Blue Marine and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation to support their projects in the Mediterranean.

While the two organisations operate globally – Blue Marine is a charity working to restore and protect the health of the ocean, and Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation is a non-profit committed to protecting and progressing planetary health. Both have active restoration programs in the Mediterranean.  

Valtteri Bottas said: “I love to wear bespoke racing helmets whenever I can, and wearing this one designed for Blue Marine Foundation and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation is particularly meaningful as it brings attention to both the beauty and fragility of the Mediterranean ocean. This helmet isn’t just about making a statement on the track; it’s about driving change and raising awareness and funds to preserve our precious marine ecosystems.”

HSH Prince Albert added: “It is through strong institutional partnerships, such as the one between my Foundation and the Blue Marine Foundation that we can fight against climate change and manage our natural resources responsibly.”

Valtteri Bottas with the unique helmet Photo credit: Andy Hone from LAT Images