Monday October 1st, 2001
The Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA) is coordinating the donation of helmets and drivers' suits of Formula One drivers participating in the United States Grand Prix for auction to benefit children of victims of the terrorist attacks on the United States three weeks ago.
Michael Schumacher, David Coulthard and Jarno Trulli pledged the gifts in a ceremony with Tony George, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, shortly before the start of the SAP United States Grand Prix on Sunday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
George will collect the helmets and uniforms from the drivers and will arrange for sale or auction of the items to realize the maximum proceeds for the surviving children of the September 11th attacks.
"This is a gracious gesture on the part of the drivers," George said. "Formula One fans around the world will have an opportunity to help the survivors of the attacks by purchasing these special items."
The following drivers have already donated these items for charity:
Michael Schumacher - Helmet
Giancarlo Fisichella - Helmet
Rubens Barrichello - Driver's suit
Jenson Button - Helmet
Mika Hakkinen - Driver's suit
Olivier Panis - Driver's suit
David Coulthard - Driver's suit
Jacques Villeneuve - Driver's suit
Jarno Trulli - Driver's suit
Enrique Bernoldi - Driver's suit
Jean Alesi - Driver's suit
Nick Heidfeld - Driver's suit
Ralf Schumacher - Helmet
Kimi Raikkonen - Driver's suit
Juan Pablo Montoya - Driver's suit
The remaining Formula One drivers - Fernando Alonso, Tomas Enge, Heinz-Harald Frentzen, Eddie Irvine, Pedro de la Rosa, Jos Verstappen and Alex Yoong - will donate their helmet, driver's suit or other items after the final race of the 2001 season, the Japanese Grand Prix on October 14th, George said.
Published at 01:58:13 GMT