Theme helmets are not new to the world of Formula 1.
Over the years drivers have paid tribute to local customs, personal projects, causes that matter to them, and many more items of inspiration.
However, Sauber driver Zhou Guanyu might be wearing the best effort yet this weekend.
Ahead of this week’s Singapore Grand Prix, Zhou unveiled his theme helmet for the race. The Marina Bay Sands is featured on the back, the iconic structure comprised of three towers — inspired by decks of cards — with the Sands SkyPark on the top. What looks like a cruise ship is actually a three-acre with pools, jogging paths, and parks, resting on top of the three towers:
While that is certainly distinctive, what sets Zhou’s helmet apart this week is none other than a cameo from Sweetcorn.
His cat:
Put it all together, and you have one of the best designs of the season:
Sweetcorn has been a feature in many social media posts from the driver, starting with the cat’s introduction to the world last December:
But now, Sweetcorn is a presence on Zhou’s helmet for the Singapore Grand Prix.