The Antonelli helmet is dedicated to Italy and Valentino Rossi.

      Kimi Antonelli intrigued everyone in advance by promising that his new helmet for the home race in Monza would be somewhat unusual and interesting in design. Last night, the Italian Mercedes driver presented it at a special press conference, and it turned out to be dedicated to Valentino Rossi, the nine-time world champion in motorcycle racing.

      "I had a special desire to race in a helmet inspired by Vale, and when I was offered to base it on the helmet he wore in 2002 at Mugello, I immediately knew it was the right choice. Designer Aldo Drudi did a great job reworking it into this version for my home race. Thank you, Valentino, for this opportunity; it is a great honor for me!" Kimi explained.

      In 2002, Kimi wasn't even born yet, but since he now has a friendly relationship with Rossi, he had the chance to study the legendary Italian racer's approach to helmet designs, which he always entrusted to Drudi.

      Together with Antonelli, they adapted the original design according to Kimi's wishes, and the new helmet features 22 images symbolizing typical Italian values: pizza, espresso, mandolin, motorcycles, stylish shoes, various hairstyles, etc.

      There are also images of the sun and moon, which have always been on Rossi's helmets. But Kimi added three images of his own – they are dedicated to his family, a map with the number 12, and a starry sky. The stars appeared on his helmets back when he competed in junior categories.

      All these icons are placed against the backdrop of the Italian tricolor, which became the main element of the helmet's design, which is quite logical for the Italian Grand Prix. And on the back side, there is a special image depicting two racers – Antonelli and Rossi.

      "Vale was thrilled! – Kimi, who just turned 20 ten days ago, said. – It was a special honor for me to do all this together with him because for me, he is not only a legend and a role model but also a very good friend."

      Valentino is expected to appear in the Monza paddock this weekend to support Antonelli, especially since the Mercedes driver will start from the back rows due to a power unit replacement in his car.