Sir Jackie Stewart back on track for his mission against dementia

One of the most emotionally charged moments of the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend came from the reappearance of a true icon. Sir Jackie Stewart, the three-time Formula 1 World Champion, returned to the cockpit of his 1973 title-winning car to complete laps of the Sakhir circuit – at 85 years old.

This poignant tribute was part of a special initiative to raise awareness and funds for Race Against Dementia, the charitable foundation Stewart launched in 2014 following his wife Helen’s diagnosis with the disease. The organization supports cutting-edge research to combat the many forms of dementia affecting more than 55 million people worldwide.

In support of the initiative, Racing Force Group brands Bell Racing Helmets and OMP provided Stewart with customized vintage-style equipment. Bell created a special-edition helmet featuring the Scottish tartan motif, a nod to Stewart’s heritage and racing legacy. The helmet was autographed in advance by all 20 living F1 World Champions, making it a powerful symbol of unity in the sport’s fight against dementia.

Complementing the helmet was a tailor-made OMP race suit, designed to prominently display the Race Against Dementia logo and recall the styling of Stewart’s golden era in motorsport. The result was a powerful blend of nostalgia and purpose.

The drive evoked memories of Stewart’s illustrious career – 27 Grand Prix victories and a defining commitment to improving driver safety. A pioneer in pushing for better medical standards and track conditions, Stewart’s influence extends far beyond his statistics.

Taking to the track ahead of Sunday’s Grand Prix, Stewart was met with widespread admiration from fans, paddock personnel, and current drivers alike. His appearance served as a vivid reminder of the sport’s past – and the enduring importance of its values off the track.

“This past weekend in Bahrain, I was thrilled to be reunited with my Tyrrell whilst sporting such first-class products. The signed Bell Racing helmet in particular has brought dementia to the attention of every person that was watching the Bahrain Grand Prix and that is what we had hoped to do. Dementia is affecting one in three people born today and we have to change that. Myself and the Race Against Dementia team would like to thank Bell Racing Helmets and OMP for making this possible and for highlighting our cause in such a spectacular fashion”, Sir Jackie Stewart told us.