Who’s doing it?

Aston Martin F1 Driver and former World Champion, Sebastian Vettel, raised a few eyebrows at this past weekend’s Miami Grand Prix with his ‘Miami 2060 – 1st Grand Prix Under Water’ helmet.

What are they doing?

New helmet? Big deal, eh?

Well it is a big deal when a Formula 1 driver arrives at a new Grand Prix with a helmet that highlights the dangers represented to that very town by climate change and the impacts of rising sea levels.

And so Sebastian Vettel arrived in Miami with a clever helmet design depicting a Miami Grand Prix taking place under water in 2060 – rising water, a snorkel and an ‘Act now or swim later’ message about climate change. The driver wore a matching t-shirt at the opening party for the Grand Prix, leaving noone in doubt about his concerns for the new F1 destination.

The race was originally planned to take place along Miami’s waterfront, but was later moved to a circuit carved out of the city’s Hard Rock Stadium car park. The race’s attempt to recreate some of the Miami waterfront was met with derision on social media and, if anything, only added to Vettel’s position.

Why is it important?

Vettel is one of Formula 1’s more socially and environmentally conscious drivers. He has long been an advocate for action on climate change and has been part of F1’s push to be more environmentally friendly – not an easy challenge for the sport, but one they have at least openly embraced.

It takes courage to make a statement like Vettel made. In the midst of the excitement of a new F1 venue it would have been much easier to land in Miami and focus on his drive. However, it was an important statement to make and highlights the impact athletes can have when they express clear, considered opinions in creative ways.

Want to know more?

To learn more about how your sport can take it’s first steps on the road to sustainability, you can get in touch with us at info@impact3zero.com.