Racing helmet worn by famed French race car driver Jean Alesi during the 1997 season. Widely regarded as one of the best French drivers of all time, Alesi was awarded the prestigious Legion of Honor medal in 2006. A Ferrari team favorite, 1997 was his lone season driving for the Benneton team, where he switched places with legendary driver and close friend Michael Schumacher. Shoei brand helmet features a grey and red decal of Alesi's name applied on the sides of the helmet. A neon orange ''Renault'' strip is affixed to the top of the visor, just below a Mild Seven logo, the cigarette brand who sponsored Alesi's car that year. Other sponsers on the helmet include Kickers, Persol, Akai and Agip. Interior of helmet contains thick blue soft foam cushioning, with a silver-buckled chin strap affixed by a velcro strip. A sticker to the inside lists the production date of the helmet as 14 February 1997. Measures 8 x 12'' x 9''. With an LOA signed by Jean Alesi. Obtained directly from Jean-Pierre Papin. Near fine.