Moving to the other side of the world is never easy, and Evan Giltaire knows that better than most. Already a proven winner with the French Formula 4 and the Formula Regional Middle East titles, and being a strong contender in the Formula Regional European Championship, the young French driver made one of the boldest decisions of his career when he relocated to Japan to contest the highly competitive Super Formula Lights.
“It’s really interesting as a life experience, discovering a different culture of racing and it’s a massive challenge to compete at the highest level in Japan,” says Giltaire.
Super Formula Lights serves as a feeder series for Super Formula, the country’s premier single-seater series with one of the fastest cars in the world outside of Formula 1.
The ambition is already translating into results. In his debut campaign in the land of the Rising Sun, Giltaire has established himself as one of the leading contenders, securing nine podium finishes, including three victories, as he continues his pursuit of the title.
As one of only three non-Japanese drivers on the grid, racing in a foreign nation comes with its own set of hurdles, such as having to learn local circuits that his rivals already know very well. However, the difficulty doesn’t end there. “The language and cultural differences don’t make the adaptation process any easier for someone coming from abroad,” comments Evan.
Amid all the change, one constant factor remained: wearing a Bell Racing helmet. He has done so since his karting days, and the choice has been based on more than just aesthetics. “The racing service is very useful, and the helmet offers excellent safety. It’s also very lightweight, which represents a big advantage because you don’t want to carry a heavy load on your head. Bell Racing delivers on all of those points.”
In a sport where margins are measured in milliseconds, the details matter. Driver’s comfort and confidence in their equipment are not luxuries, they are performance factors. A helmet that fits well, feels light, and inspires trust in its protection allows to focus entirely on what counts.
Giltaire’s helmet design for the 2026 season combines his new adventure with his roots. “I decided to go back to my original color, which is blue.” The final result tells a story: a French talent, racing in Japan, with a helmet that bridges both worlds. The delicate pink of the cherry blossoms set against a blue and white base creates something visually striking and deeply personal.
The goal for the season is clear and ambitious: “To win the Super Formula Lights title”, states Giltaire. “And for the future, Formula 1 is definitely the target.”
