Zoom A special event for many in the F1 paddock

Lewis Hamilton will sport a special crash helmet livery to mark his return to Silverstone as the defending winner of his home British Grand Prix.

Last July, the eventual world champion's drive to an ultra-dominant win in the treacherous wet conditions was peerless, as he finished more than a minute ahead of second placed Nick Heidfeld.

This weekend, the 24-year-old does not have a competitive McLaren with which to push for victory, but his helmet paint tweak shows he is still keen to pay back his fans for his 2008 achievements.

The design is modified at the top, depicting his usual helmet having been ripped away to show a Union flag underneath.

Added diamonds at Monaco aside, it is the first time Hamilton has changed his familiar mustard-yellow helmet since debuting in 2007.

"I wanted to choose a design that not only showed that I am a British sportsman but, more importantly, recognise all the support I get from the fans at Silverstone," he said.

Hamilton is also concerned that, if Donington's plans for the 2010 British Grand Prix fail, Sunday might be the last Formula One race in the historic host nation.

"Formula One just wouldn't be the same without the British Grand Prix," he said. "It is out of the question."

E.A. © CAPSIS International
Source: GMM