When Big Dan put on a scary mask

01/05/2025 07:30 AM

Dan Gurney - ever the innovator - pioneered the use of Bell's full-face helmet in F1 in 1968.

But six years earlier, back in 1962, the great American driver was already searching for ways to improve his protection, but fortunately not from a global pandemic.

In this shot taken at the 1962 US Grand Prix at Watkins Glen, Gurney is seen chatting to Porsche team mate Jo Bonnier and wearing a leather mask, which resulted in a bit of a 'Darth Vader' scary look.

The concept was quickly ditched however because of its lack of comfort.

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