Where was the tar sands helmet that Sebastian Vettel was so excited to wear at the Canadian GP? Many believe that the driver was maybe ‘asked’ not to wear it or he simply chose to avoid further criticism. The helmet was indeed controversial, garnering negative responses from Canadian politicians.

Vettel’s helmet design called out the tar sands oil production as “CANADA’S CLIMATE CRIME”. Further, a rather clear sign of “STOP MINING TAR SANDS” was also visible. Notably, countries like Canada hold well-paying GPs, and Vettel’s targeted comments and actions can easily disappoint several sponsors or country officials.

This is obviously not suitable for F1 authorities. And might explain the reason why Vettel raced with his traditional helmet and not the special one. When asked during an interview with F1 broadcaster Sky, he replied unconvincingly, “I don’t want to say anything, I have more than one helmet.” And ended the interview with a “Do we have any other questions?”

Canadian tar sands are a famed topic across the globe. The oil production from it in the Canadian province of Alberta was the main topic of contention here. Vettel described it as a hazardous move for landscapes and forest areas.

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Notably, ecology and climate changes are important topics to Vettel. Fans often see him talking about worldly problems and even attending seminars, interviews, etc. to raise awareness. He is also one of the very few drivers to use his platform and fame to educate people about the environment.

Is Sebastian Vettel a ‘hypocrite’?

This issue obviously had to gain a lot of attention as it did. Amidst Vettel’s printed T-shirt and helmet design criticism, Alberta’s energy minister called the four-time world champion a hypocrite. Clearly, Vettel’s profession, F1, is one of the world’s most gas-guzzling sports and is not really beneficial to the environment.

But this is not the first time that the German has faced these ‘hypocrisy’ comments. His career as a racing driver doesn’t really help his stand. Further, Aston Martin’s team principal Mike Krack also denied banning Vettel’s helmet. Calling him a ‘free man’ he said, “He wanted to use the helmet and the T-shirt to draw attention to the topic.”

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Watch This Story: When F1 Drivers Had a Blast on Top Gear Featuring Hamilton, Vettel & Ricciardo

“At some point he decided that attention had been drawn. Yes, he can don’t wear the same T-shirt every day.” So, do you think Seb took off the helmet on his own or someone made him do it?