Alex set to wear special edition helmet in Japan

Here’s everything you need to know about Albono’s cherry blossom-inspired lid

Published

03 APR 2025

Est Reading Time

1 min

Alex will be sporting a special edition lid when he takes to the Suzuka International Racing Course this weekend.

Albono has worn a different helmet in each of his two Grands Prix to date, having donned his regular AA23 lid in Australia and a bespoke Sichuan Opera-themed design in China.

He’ll make that three from three at the Japanese GP, thanks to his brand new cherry blossom-inspired helmet.

Considered the national flower of Japan, the cherry blossom — or sakura — is an aesthetically pleasing flower that typically blooms in March and April across East Asia.

It is enduringly popular in Japan, with flower viewing a common pastime during the spring months.

The blossoms are traditionally seen to symbolise both renewal and impermanence, as they bloom at the end of each winter but for a relatively short time.

Cherry blossoms can be found throughout Japanese culture, from film, anime and art to the emblem on the national rugby union team’s kits.

Talking of Japanese culture, the landscape on this weekend's helmet is also pixelated, as a nod to the country's role in the evolution of video games.

Let's hope that Alex's new look inspires another impressive performance from our Thai racer!