Shining bright on the big stage and helping out a close friend: Freddie Slater on his 2026 helmet design

Championship leader Freddie Slater heads into the summer break top of the FIA Formula 3 pile, but he took time out ahead of the holidays to talk us through his 2026 helmet design.

Featuring the Audi rings for the first time and maintaining what has been a signature look since karts, the TRIDENT driver dives into the design and how it came about.

"This has always been my style. I've always had an 'F' somewhere in my helmet on the side since karting, and it's always been there, just changing colours over the years a little bit.

"This year we decided to go with a bit more chrome to get a bit more of a sparkle effect. The addition of the four rings is very special as well on the 2026 helmet. It fits very well with the TRIDENT colours, so it all came together.

"Miles Murphy of MDM Designs, they've always done all my helmets since I started racing cars. Bell provide the helmet as well. I wouldn't have any other provider if I'm honest. They're a great bunch of people and create amazing helmets, so it's very special this one. Best on the grid, no bias at all.

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"In terms of process, It's quite tricky with helmets because you want to get something that reflects you and is your style. Obviously year after year there's more designs being used, so it's quite hard to come up with something new.

"You also want to keep a little bit of what you normally have. I've had this sort of style since I started really, and that's why we try and keep it year by year. So that's always the goal.

"I had a special one this year for Silverstone, it was more of a pure blue. Blue is my favourite colour, it suited the design very well. We added lots of chrome sparkles. It was a one-off helmet for Silverstone, but I wouldn't be surprised if we see it back out again at some track soon. Maybe another special event or whatever comes up.

"I've got the Team Will sticker on the top of my helmet. Will McIntyre is going through such a difficult period in his life and nobody ever wants to see that. Much love to all the family and our support goes out to them.

"The racing paddock has all come together to unite and support him. He's got some amazing charity events, which we need to get as many people to.

"He's fighting against Neuro XLP1 which requires a stem cell treatment, so anybody that's able to can get involved via his website. I just want to help one of my closest friends.

"We started in karts together and we've always been on a journey together. It's obviously made me very proud and happy to help him as much as I can. So please get involved there if you can.

"In terms of the design overall, I think this year for my favourite part is the chrome and the 'F'. It's always been part of my design. I like the chrome that makes it shine a little bit more on track.

"It looks great in the photos, especially when the lighting is nice. Now the addition of the four rings is even more special."