Mitch Evans adds his Maori heritage to Formula E

Mitch Evan took inspiration from his Iwi, Te Aupōuri, to create two helmets. Photos: Jaguar NZ

Kiwi Formula E racing driver Mitch Evans is making his mark with the debut of two new helmets that pay homage to his Māori heritage as he competes in his electrifying eighth season with the Jaguar TCS Racing team.  

For the helmet design, Evans took inspiration from his Iwi (Te Aupōuri) and worked alongside  Te Rangitu Netana, a Māori Ta Moko Artist based in the UK, to create a meaningful design on each of the helmets. 

Both helmets have been painted by talented Kiwi designer Tyler Richardson and showcase the Kuaka, a special bird from the region of Evans’ iwi that symbolises mystery and leadership. 

Mitch Evans will be wearing the two helmets during the Formula E season.

Evans said it meant a lot to him to represent his heritage and country on the world stage “I’m always proud to do so”.

“A helmet is very personal part of your preparation and identity on the track, so having my new helmets incorporate my Māori heritage was important to me and I’m proud of the meaning behind both. They  are taonga and are full of meaning, reflecting my Māori ancestry from Muriwhenua.” 

The new designs also debut a fresh colour palette for Evans, which is more in line with the modern  New Zealand sporting code with striking black and silver with splashes of red, instead of the more traditional red and blue.  

Mitch Evans races for Jaguar TCS Racing team.

“The purpose of the new designs was to bring more meaning to my helmets, and I hope I can have great success representing my Iwi and country in these helmets this season!” said Mitch.  

JLR New Zealand CEO Steve Kenchington says, “Mitch's connection to his culture and his sport embodies the spirit of Jaguar TCS Racing and we look forward to seeing him race with pride and passion in his new helmets throughout the 2024 season”. 

The next round of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship takes place in São Paulo, Brazil on Saturday 16 March, while  Evans will take on his 100th race in his Formula E career at the Tokyo E-Prix on 30 March.