Evolution Of Formula 1

Throughout history, the human species has sought numerous methods for entertainment. One such method of entertainment, Formula One racing, has remained at the top of European viewing. The pinnacle of all racing, Formula One consists of aerodynamic cars built for speed and defying laws of physics. Since these cars achieve such great speeds, an upwards maximum of 225.1 miles-per-hour as recorded by Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton in Mexico October of last year (Drivers 1), it comes as no surprise that these cars feature many safety precautions, one such being the helmet. Throughout history, the significance of advanced technology in the average person’s everyday life has emerged as more and more prevalent. As such, with ever evolving technology, the cars and safety features of Formula One have also gone through an evolution. One particular evolution, the evolution of the helmet, truly expresses the advancement of new technology. An important note, Formula One and many other European racing platforms, did not require helmets at the beginning of the revival of Formula One, following its demise during World War II, in 1946. Interestingly, all American racing platforms did require at least some form head protection …show more content…
Until 1953, the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l 'Automobile), the governing body of Formula One, did not mandate drivers who race under its umbrella, to wear helmets (F1). If drivers did wear helmets, if the term “helmet” can be appropriately applied, they consisted of a leather helmet of pressed animal skin, goggles, and a neckerchief. Formula One cars at the time were comprised of long, tube-shaped bodies, along with thin tires. Not surprising, many safety features, known as second nature to us today, had not yet been developed. These leather helmets provided little to zero protection, their main use consisting of protection from