MAY 27, 2001

Mosely shows off helmet

FIA PRESIDENT Max Mosley unveiled a new helmet in Monaco that is hoped will dramatically improve the chances of surviving impacts to the head. The result of three years' study, the helmet is constructed from carbon fiber as opposed to the more commonplace fiberglass prevalent in modern helmet design.

Capable of absorbing 70% more energy, it is also significantly better at resisting penetration injuries such as that which killed Ayrton Senna in 1994 when the suspension of his Williams entered the triple champion's helmet above the visor.

The FIA will make blueprints of its new helmet available free of charge to helmet manufacturers, and it is believed that it will soon become the main form of helmet used in the sport.