Hamilton Displays New Helmet Design for 2009 British GP

Newly-designed helmet for Hamilton, at Silverstone

Reigning Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton yesterday unveiled his modified helmet, designed exclusively for this weekend's home race at Silverstone. With most eyes set on F1's new sensation Jenson Button, Hamilton got his 15 minutes of fame ahead of this weekend's race, announcing he will wear a Union Jack Flag-designed helmet to show his appreciation towards the British fans.

Hamilton will return to Silverstone as winner of last year's grand prix, when he displayed some outstanding driving to finish the race more than one minute ahead of his nearest rival. As a sign of gratitude for the support provided by the British fans, and given the fact that Silverstone will host its last British Grand Prix this weekend, Ham will alter the design of his well-known yellow crash helmet for the first time in career – added diamonds at Monaco aside.

“I'm really proud to be a British driver in a British team racing in front of the British crowd. I wanted to choose a design that not only showed that I am a British sportsman but, more importantly, recognised all the support I get from the fans at Silverstone,” said Hamilton, according to McLaren's official site.

“Last year, I remember standing on the grid and just looking out at all the faces in the crowd and flags and banners, it was a really special moment. And in the closing laps, I could see the fans on the banking going crazy, waving flags and banners on every lap. Racing at Silverstone is special, the British fans are special and I'm really looking forward to seeing them again,” added the McLaren champion.

As one can easily notice from the picture above, Ham's Silverstone-designed helmet will consist of the same yellow scheme, only peeled away to reveal the British flag on top of it.

In addition, Hamilton once again expressed his close feelings towards the British Grand Prix. “Formula one just wouldn't be the same without the British grand prix. It is out of the question,” added the 24-year old Brit.