F1 EXPLAINS: How F1 helmets are made – with Bell Racing

F1 helmets are essential pieces of safety kit, made from specialised materials, but they do far more than just protect the driver.
On the latest episode of F1 Explains, the gang explores helmet design in F1, from the testing required to the technology that goes into them.
Joining pod hosts Katie Osborne and Christian Hewgill is Stephane Cohen, co-CEO of Bell Racing, the company which makes helmets for 13 current drivers on the F1 grid.
Together they delve into how Bell make helmets that are strong but also light, and why visors don't fog up. They also explore why an update to an F1 car can require helmets to be modified.
Plus, you can hear how F1 helmets differ to those worn by the stars of the NFL.
F1 EXPLAINS: Ask an F1 driver – Your questions answered by Liam Lawson
To listen to the full episode, hit go on the audio player above – or click here to listen on your preferred podcasting platform.
And to get your questions answered, you can send a query about any F1 topic you fancy to F1Explains@F1.com. Our intrepid podcast team will then hunt down the best person in the paddock to give you the answer.
All episodes of F1 Explains are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other major podcast apps. New episodes are released every Friday.
Next Up
Related Articles
Tech WeeklyHow teams have responded to the new regulations
20 of the most exciting talents on the road to F1 in 2026
Team Previews 2026All you need to know about Haas ahead of 2026
Why McLaren won't run on day one of Barcelona Shakedown
Ocon thinks Haas can be ‘dangerous’ in 2026
Bortoleto on Audi team’s ‘emotional’ reaction to car