UAE Team Debuts First AI-Designed Helmet at Tour de France
In a major technological leap for professional cycling, UAE Team Emirates–XRG introduced the world’s first AI-designed helmet during the Tour de France on July 8. This innovation debuted on the world stage during the 21-day cycling race, which began on July 5 and runs through July 27.
Developed in partnership with Abu Dhabi-based AI company G42 and Italian manufacturer MET Helmets, the helmet represents a blend of performance and creative design. According to G42, “The helmet’s unique livery was created using advanced AI tools to interpret movement through airflow and negative space, blending data, performance, and creativity.”
This helmet is more than a symbol; it showcases how AI can now shape the very gear athletes rely on. As a result, the team is now pushing boundaries not only in performance but also in technological adoption.
Helmetverse: A Global AI Design Challenge
To involve fans in this innovation, G42 launched Helmetverse, a global design competition. Participants are invited to generate their own helmet artwork using simple text prompts and submit them to the Helmetverse website. Additionally, users can vote on their favorite designs, bringing a community element into the creative process.
The competition doesn’t end with voting. Top submissions will be reviewed by experts from G42, UAE Team Emirates–XRG, and MET Helmets. Ultimately, the winning fan-designed helmet will be worn by the UAE team during the 2026 UAE Tour, making it the first crowd-designed helmet in professional cycling. Entries remain open until September 15.
Beyond Design: AI to Boost Training and Engagement
As the official AI partner of UAE Team Emirates–XRG, G42 confirmed it will continue working closely with the team. Their collaboration aims to explore how artificial intelligence can enhance training, racing strategy, and fan engagement going forward.
Notably, this partnership reflects the team’s commitment to innovation. Following several high-profile victories and consistent UCI World Tour rankings, UAE Team Emirates–XRG is leading not just on the road, but in the future of cycling technology as well.
