Formula One has illustrious roots in Canada but never before has that included a team launch ahead of a season. Formerly known as Force India, SportPesa Racing Point officially launched their rebrand today in Toronto for the 2019 season, debuting a new title sponsor and livery.
After a rocky 2018 season, it seems as though the team has landed on Stable ground with a slew of new title sponsors and funding, most notably that of Lawrence Stroll who’s son Lance has joined the team to partner Sergio Perez. Also worth noting, Racing Point is the only team on the grid with two North American drivers. They both seemed to be more than excited to be racing together but its hard to look angry when you’re clad in pink.
Team Principal Otmar Szafnauer and Technical Director Andrew Green were also on hand to reveal the new look. Moral was high and the general talk was that the team was ready to be a a real contender in the middle of the grid. Sights are firmly set on fourth in the Constructors Championship and the team is eager to begin testing the car with an all new Mercedes power plant next week according to Green. The positive energy was more than welcome as I sat through the disgruntled murmuring of the photographer next to me, seems as thought there was a head in most of his shots.
I’ll have more on the experience to follow, there was no shortage of excitement. Overall it was a fantastic event and I’m looking forward to the official media day tomorrow!
Carlo Perrotta
AUTOREALIST 