Light Meets Speed: Arvid Lindblad’s Diwali Helmet at the São Paulo Grand Prix

Formula 1 is a world of carbon fibre and split-second decisions. This weekend, it also gets a little rangoli. Visa Cash App Racing Bulls driver Arvid Lindblad is celebrating Diwali, the “Festival of Lights”, with a special Indian-inspired helmet, and the festival falls on race day, Sunday, 8 November.

Arvid Lindblad: Overview

A Helmet With a Family Story

This is personal. Arvid grew up celebrating Diwali with his maternal grandparents, Nani and Nana, and he was closely involved in the design. In his words, he wanted something that felt cool while staying true to the festival’s meaning.

Decoding the Design

Every element has a purpose:

• Rangoli (top and sides): inspired by patterns Arvid has created himself over the past few years, including one from last year’s Diwali.
• Diya: the symbol of light, hope and joy, woven subtly into the design.
• Lotus (front and rear): represents purity and resilience, and backs Arvid’s belief that your circumstances don’t define you.
• Fireworks: a nod to family celebrations and memories of lighting diyas with his Nana.
• Phulkari base: a tribute to his Nani and her Punjabi heritage.

The Garage Gets in on It Too

The celebration goes beyond the helmet. The team is bringing the festival to Arvid’s side of the garage with a “Happy Diwali” sticker on his car’s halo. An intricate rangoli will cover the garage floor, with a lotus and diya above his surname. Rangoli-inspired panels sit behind the car.

Arvid says getting back in the car wearing this helmet will be “an emotional moment.” For Indian fans watching Formula 1 this weekend, it’s also a rare sight: their festival, front and centre on the grid.

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