G42 has partnered with UAE Team Emirates-XRG and MET Helmets to unveil a new AI-designed cycling helmet that will be worn by the team during Stage 5 of the Tour de France, while announcing the return of its global fan design platform, Helmetverse.
Helmetverse, which generated nearly 20,000 fan-created helmet designs from 135 countries in its debut edition, will reopen on July 13 and run until September 13, allowing cycling enthusiasts worldwide to create helmet designs using AI-generated text prompts.
The newly unveiled helmet was created in collaboration with AI artist Gizem Akdag and is inspired by the transition “from city to signal and from data to light,” reflecting the speed and energy of professional cycling.
Fans can submit designs, share them online and vote for their favourites. The top entries will be reviewed by a judging panel comprising representatives from G42, UAE Team Emirates-XRG and MET Helmets. The winning design will be manufactured by MET Helmets and worn by UAE Team Emirates-XRG during the UAE Tour in February 2027.
Alex Brunori, G42 VP Brand Experience, said: “At G42, we build the full stack of AI – from the data centers and compute to the models, to the applications that put intelligence to work across industries. Helmetverse takes that same capability and places it directly in people’s hands. It’s a reminder that the technology we deploy at national and industrial scale can also spark individual creativity, and that making AI accessible is as important to us as advancing it.”
Mauro Gianetti, Team Principal and CEO of UAE Team Emirates-XRG, said: “The reaction to Helmetverse last year showed how passionate cycling fans are about engaging with our sport in new ways. As a team, we are always looking to push boundaries, whether that’s through performance, innovation or fan engagement. Helmetverse reflects that mindset and gives cycling fans an opportunity to leave their mark on the team.”
Gizem Akdag, AI Artist, said: “Seeing my design brought to life through Helmetverse has been an incredible experience. Inspired by movement, speed and transformation, the concept reflects the energy of professional cycling and the constant pursuit of innovation. Helmetverse provides a platform for people to express their creativity and contribute their own ideas to the future of design.”
G42 continues to serve as the Official AI Partner of UAE Team Emirates-XRG, supporting collaboration on performance, innovation and fan engagement.
