Niki Lauda's legendary AGV X1 Air System helmet reappeared at Eicma

Niki Lauda's legendary AGV X1 Air System helmet, worn by the Formula 1 driver during the dramatic 1976 German Grand Prix at the Nurburgring, after being stolen at an event in Milan in 1988, has finally returned to narrate its incredible legend: displayed to the public at the Dainese booth at EICMA 2024.

The helmet, visibly damaged by the fire that broke out during the accident, tells of the extraordinary strength of the Austrian rider, who returned to racing just 42 days later.

Its iconic red livery, with Lauda's name embossed in white, not only represents a sports legend, but it also marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of track safety. Disappearing for 37 years after appearing at an exhibition in the United States in 1987, followed by Japan and Italy, Niki Lauda's AGV X1 has long been an object of mystery, for decades fueling speculation and myths.

Dainese, owner of the AGV brand, has managed to claim the rightful ownership of the helmet and returned this precious heirloom to history and fans. On display at EICMA 2024, it will become part of the DAR (Dainese ARchivio), Dainese's permanent exhibition in Vicenza that celebrates iconic ideas, people and objects which have revolutionized safety, design, and performance in the dynamic sports scene.