In pics - Franco Colapinto to pay tribute to Lionel Messi with special helmet in Qatar GP

Argentine racing sensation Franco Colapinto will showcase a unique helmet design this weekend at the Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit, as well as in the season finale in Abu Dhabi. The 21-year-old’s helmet, a striking homage to Lionel Messi and Argentina’s national football team, prominently features the iconic sky blue and white stripes, an image of Messi, and three stars symbolizing Argentina’s World Cup victories.

The tribute stems from Colapinto’s deep admiration for Messi and the national team’s historic achievements. According to Colapinto’s team manager, Bricco, the inspiration came from connecting the Qatar race venue with the memorable triumph of La Scaloneta in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. “From the very beginning, we thought of a tribute to the entire team,” Bricco explained. “But Messi’s image, as in every photo of the title, takes centre stage.”

Here are some pictures:

Franco Colapinto is wearing this amazing helmet inspired by the 2022 World Cup at the QatarGP 🇶🇦🌟🏆 pic.twitter.com/grb9p0YbXw

— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) November 28, 2024

Colapinto’s reverence for Lionel Messi goes beyond symbolic gestures. Earlier this year, he gifted one of his helmets to the football legend via mutual friend and music producer Bizarrap. Additionally, Colapinto’s father hinted at plans for a personal meeting between the rising motorsport star and the Argentine captain, further strengthening the connection between these two icons of Argentine sports.

Last opportunity for Colapinto to bid for the 2025 season!

On the racing front, Colapinto is looking to end the season on a high note, having recently secured eighth and tenth-place finishes in Azerbaijan and Austin, respectively. As he continues to solidify his career in motorsport, Colapinto is eyeing opportunities in Formula 1.

Though Williams has confirmed its 2025 driver lineup with Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz, Colapinto remains in the mix for future roles, possibly with teams like Red Bull or Alpine, depending on the evolving driver market.

The special tribute helmet has resonated deeply with fans, reinforcing Colapinto’s growing popularity in Argentina. As the nation rallies behind him, dreams of seeing Colapinto compete in a full Formula 1 season—and proudly represent the sky blue and white on motorsport’s grandest stage—are becoming ever more vivid.