Arai Helmets can add another feather to its helmet for being the first motorcycle gear manufacturer to be awarded ab FIM Gold Medal for Safety.
The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) awarded Arai Helmets the prestigious Nicolas Rodil del Valle Gold Medal for its “achievement in contributions to the safety of many riders and numerous advancements to motorcycle sports over many years”.
FIM which is the global governing body for motorcycle motorsports, encompassing events like MotoGP, presented the Gold Medal to Michio Arai, son of Arai Helmet's founder, Hirotake Arai, at FIM's awards gala event in Monte Carlo in Monaco.
First introduced in 1983, the Gold Medal for Safety is awarded annually to persons with significant contributions to 2-wheel racing activities and management of businesses and is awarded only when there is a qualified person to receive it. Though it was received by Michio Arai, this marks the first time in its 36-year history that the medal has been awarded to a gear manufacturer.
In its official statement, Arai Helmets acknowledged the reason behind the award and its special circumstances and pledged to continue to make helmets without compromise for the sake of rider protection since the company’s founding as the first motorcycle helmet manufacturer in Japan.
Michio "Mitch" Arai, making a speech at the FIM awards gala in Monte Carlo, Monaco
Arai Helmets started out with humble beginnings in 1926 when it was founded by Hirotake Arai, a hat maker. In October 1950, Arai was the first company in Japan to manufacture helmets specifically for motorcycles. In 1986, Michio “Mitch” Arai took the helm as the leader of the company and has propelled it to greater heights. Today, Arai is considered as one of the best motorcycle helmet brands available and is patronized by riders around the globe and endorsed by many world-class motorcycle racers.
