Mercedes offers F1 fans chance to design Valtteri Bottas' 2018 helmet

Mercedes has opened up an exciting competition for fans to get involved with ahead of the 2018 Formula 1 season, offering the chance to submit a new design for Valtteri Bottas' helmet this year.

Largely sticking to the same helmet design for the duration of his F1 career, Bottas has decided to go for something completely different for this coming season - and will select the winning entry himself to use for the vast majority of 2018 grands prix.

More information is available from Mercedes' website, linked below, including competition terms and conditions should you decide to submit your own design.

If you win, you not only get the pleasure of watching the product of your creativity hurtle around at over 200mph, but you'll also receive a replica of your design.

To enter, you'll have to sign up with Mercedes online, where you'll get the template and associated information needed to put your entry together.

Dig out your dusty box of crayons, pens or copy of Photoshop, and get creative - you've got until the 12th January to get your entries submitted!

Further information on the competition and entry restrictions are all available here.