There are few symbols more universally recognised than Mickey Mouse’s ears or the unmistakable silhouette of a Formula 1 racing helmet. One represents imagination, hope and childhood wonder; the other courage, ambition and the pursuit of greatness. Now, in a collaboration where dreams race alongside determination, Disney, Formula 1® and Make-A-Wish® have united to create something truly extraordinary.
At the heart of the first-of-its-kind initiative are two bespoke racing helmets, created in partnership with Bell Racing and designed by Bret Iwan, the official voice of Mickey Mouse, with creative direction from Bobby Kim, Global Creative Director of Disney Consumer Products. More than collector’s pieces, the helmets have been crafted as symbols of hope, helping to grant life-changing wishes for children living with critical illnesses around the world.
Finished in an elegant matte black, each helmet comes alive through striking high-gloss graphics, bold flashes of Disney’s iconic red and yellow palette, Formula 1 branding and joyful illustrations of Mickey Mouse charging confidently towards the finish line. Hidden just behind Mickey’s shoe is a delicate Make-A-Wish star, sparkling like a trail of pixie dust in his wake, a subtle reminder that even the smallest touch of magic can transform a child’s world.
The design perfectly marries the worlds of motorsport and imagination. Bobby Kim’s contemporary design language, influenced by streetwear and modern culture, combines seamlessly with Bret Iwan’s beloved character artistry, reimagining Mickey through dynamic racing numbers, track-inspired striping and bold graphic detailing.
Each helmet is presented as a work of art in its own right, housed within a bespoke plexiglass display case and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity personally signed by both Iwan and Kim. Meanwhile, the second helmet will travel to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California, from 14–16 August 2026, where Disney fans will have the opportunity to experience the remarkable design up close.
The first helmet made its debut during the FORMULA 1 PIRELLI BRITISH GRAND PRIX at Silverstone, where it was signed by Formula 1 drivers throughout race weekend, including Make-A-Wish France ambassador Pierre Gasly. It will now be auctioned through F1 Authentics, operated under licence by Memento Exclusives, with auction registration opening on 7 July and bidding taking place between 11–18 July. Net proceeds* will support Make-A-Wish International, helping grant life-changing wishes for children and their families outside the United States when they need them most.
The collaboration continues a relationship that has already transformed countless lives. Disney and Make-A-Wish first came together more than 45 years ago when Disneyland welcomed its very first official wish recipient. Since then, together they have helped grant more than 175,000 wishes across the globe, creating unforgettable moments of joy, courage and hope for children facing critical illness.
Sometimes the greatest victories are not measured in podium finishes or championship points, but in the smile of a child whose impossible dream has become reality. In these remarkable helmets, Disney, Formula 1 and Make-A-Wish have created something far greater than a collector’s item, they have crafted a reminder that hope, like magic, has the power to change lives.
