ABU DHABI: G42, the UAE’s leading artificial intelligence and technology holding group, has teamed up with UAE Team Emirates–XRG and MET Helmets to launch the world’s first GEN AI-designed helmet for the team to wear at the Tour de France today.
Designed using G42’s advanced generative AI technology, the unique livery blends data, performance and creativity, interpreting movement through airflow and negative space, for the riders on all terrain.
From the helmet came the idea for a global community-driven project known as Helmetverse, a design challenge that invites cycling fans to design their own AI-generated head gear.
Live now at helmetverse.ai, the digital platform allows fans worldwide to design custom cycling helmets using cutting-edge AI tools. With simple text prompts, users can generate unique helmet designs in seconds.
All submissions can be viewed, shared and voted on, with the 10 most-voted entries reviewed by a panel of judges from G42, UAE Team Emirates–XRG and MET Helmets.
Andrew Jackson, G42’s group chief AI officer, said: “Partnering with a world-class team like UAE Team Emirates-XRG allows us to showcase the power of AI, not just in performance, but also in creativity.
“Helmetverse is an example of human-AI collaboration, providing a platform for people to design something personal. It’s AI at its most accessible, and most exciting.”
The winning helmet will be produced and worn by UAE Team Emirates–XRG during the 2026 UAE Tour, becoming a first for fan-created AI design in a UCI WorldTour race. Submissions are open and will close on Sept. 15, 2025.
Faheem Ahamed, G42’s group chief marketing officer, said: “Helmetverse gives cycling fans a new way to get involved with UAE Team Emirates-XRG, the world’s best cycling team.
“It puts creativity at the forefront of innovation, bringing more people closer to the sport, with the chance to see their creation on the WorldTour stage.”
Mauro Gianetti, UAE Team Emirates-XRG team principal and CEO, said: “Cycling is a unique sport because it is not only about competition and racing — both professional cyclists and casual riders can share the same roads and enjoy the ride together.
“Helmetverse gives fans a new way to be part of that journey. It’s an open, inclusive idea that brings fresh energy to the sport and reflects our ambition to lead both on and off the road.”
A key pillar of this partnership will have G42 act as the official AI partner of UAE Team Emirates-XRG, working closely to explore new opportunities across cycling, including optimizing training, race strategies, team performance, and fan engagement.
