WATCH: Israeli Race Car Driver Proudly Holds Up Helmet With Pictures of Hostages

NEW ORLEANS (VINnews) — An Israeli race-car driver performing in a leading American competition, finished in third place in his debut US Formula 4 Race. Then he displayed an act of courage, hope, and defiance.

On Sunday, driver Ariel Elkin performed exceptionally well, and when presented with his trophy, he bucked tradition by refusing to drop his helmet in order to hold his trophy. Instead, he proudly held up his helmet, which was covered with pictures of hostages.

1/2: This week, Israeli racing driver, Ariel Elkin, won 3rd place in the USF Formula 4 Championship in USA.

When he got to the podium the commentator told him to put down his helmet but he refused & instead he lifted his helmet covered with the photos of the hostages. pic.twitter.com/fil652BXnu

— Documenting Israel (@DocumentIsrael) April 8, 2024

Israeli Driver Ariel Elkin Takes Third in Debut US Formula 4 Race with Hostage-Themed Helmet Design 🇮🇱❤️
byu/Middle_Ad_8052 inIsrael

The following appears on Ariel’s website:

“Ariel is a professional race car driver. During his 11-year-long career, he achieved more than 100 podiums on the international motorsport stage. Ariel’s dream is to stand on the Formula 1 podium with the Israeli flag.

“Beside the racing activity, Ariel is a 16-year-old student at the Hebrew Reali School in Haifa, where he excel in his studies. Ariel speaks five languages, and spends his free time coaching young drivers to help them succeed.”