Vettel to auction off special 'Diversity' helmet

Sebastian Vettel will part for a good cause with his special 'Diversity' rainbow helmet that he's sporting this weekend in Bahrain, with the German driver's lid set to be auctioned off for charity.

Designed by the trusted Jens Munser and introduced in Turkey, the stunning 'Together as One' artwork is a salute to diversity and harmony in these troubled times.

The scheme features a rainbow pride stripe while the lower part of the lid depicts a diverse set of people from all walks of life.

But the design also incorporates the famous words of aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart: "No borders, just horizons – only freedom".

©Ferrari

Ahead of Sunday's Bahrain GP, Vettel recorded a short video, presenting the helmet that will be auctioned off on his website, with bids starting on December 3 and running for ten days until December 13.

"It hurts me to say this," said Vettel, "but because I believe this helmet can be more than another message, I've decided this helmet can help and raise some money, and I will auction it off."

Head over to sebastianvettel.de to learn more about the helmet and the upcoming auction.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.