Explained: Alex's special edition Chinese GP helmet

Discover the inspiration behind Albono's Round 2 lid

Published

21 MAR 2025

Est. reading time

2 min

Alex is sporting a special edition helmet this weekend, as he bids for points at the Shanghai International Circuit. But what is the inspiration behind his latest lid? Well, Albono's Chinese GP helmet design is inspired by the traditional masks used in Sichuan Opera (川剧). Sichuan Opera is perhaps best known for the art of 'face changing', or bian lian, where performers quickly tear off, rub or blow away a mask to reveal another.

The colours of a mask can symbolise the disposition of the character, so the changing of the masks (whether small or big) often indicates a change of emotion or context in the story.

However, the meanings behind the design and colours can vary between regions and stories — evolving and becoming more nuanced over time. Alex has stuck to a simple colour palette for his helmet, with the base colours being blue and red. The use of the colour blue in an opera mask can show that the character is steadfast — someone who is loyal and brave.

Blue is also often associated with traits such as strength and wisdom, while the use red, in various contexts, can indicate a positive character with traits like courage and loyalty. Characters with red masks are usually heroes or characters with high morals and fearlessness. Notably, Sichuan is also the province that Lily — Alex's partner — is from, with Albono's nickname on Chinese social media being Sichuan son in law (四川女婿).

Let's hope that AA23's new lid brings him luck while he is in China!