Lando Norris has paid tribute to former racing driver Gil de Ferran, who died in December aged 56, by wearing a replica of his Indy 500-winning helmet during Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain.
De Ferran, a former Indianapolis 500 winner, worked closely with McLaren as sporting director and later as an advisor. Norris described him as a dear friend who had been with him since he entered F1, helping both on and off the track.
In a post on X, Norris explained the helmet design was the same one de Ferran wore for his 2003 Indy 500 victory, which came months after he suffered a broken back. Norris said: 'This is my little way to say thank you for everything... This one is for you Gil.'
The tribute comes as F1 teams ramp up preparations for the new season, with practice already underway in Bahrain. The opening race takes place in less than two weeks at the same circuit.
