By Gary Symons
TLL Editor in Chief
If you’re in the market for a new car that can really shorten your commute times, consider the Toro Rosso STR 14. Sure, the trunk space is … nonexistent … but for true racing enthusiasts, the Toro Rosso is a prime example of F1 racing technology.
Now, an actual race-used Toro Rosso can be yours. F1 Authentics, the official home of Formula 1 memorabilia, has announced it will auction a Toro Rosso STR14 chassis during its Austin GP Auction this October, offering collectors a rare chance to own a podium-finishing car from the hybrid era.
The STR14-04 competed during the 2019 Formula One World Championship, a season that saw French driver Pierre Gasly secure his first career podium at the Brazilian Grand Prix with a dramatic second-place finish. That result also marked the best finish of the decade for Toro Rosso, the Red Bull-owned team that was later rebranded as AlphaTauri.
The chassis up for sale was driven by both Gasly and teammate Alex Albon and represents one of the final cars to carry the Toro Rosso name and livery. Its blue, silver and red paint scheme, adorned with sponsor branding, remains intact.
While the Honda power unit has been returned to Japan, the car is presented with a number of original components, including an alternate-spec nosecone and wing, team cover, spare parts, and additional wheels and tyres.
F1 Authentics describes the vehicle as being in “outstanding condition,” retaining its authentic, race-used character.
“Opportunities to acquire genuine hybrid-era Formula 1 cars are extremely limited, especially those with podium history,” the company noted in its announcement.
The STR14 auction will open October 7 and close October 21, the Monday after the United States Grand Prix in Austin. Previews are currently available on the F1 Authentics website.
F1 Authentics, which is operated by the UK-based firm Memento Exclusives under licence from Formula 1, regularly stages auctions of race-used memorabilia. Its events typically feature items such as signed racewear, helmets and authentic bodywork. The Austin GP Auction will include a wide range of pieces, but the STR14 is the headline lot.
Founded out of Formula 1, Memento Exclusives has grown into a global sports licensing and memorabilia business, working across multiple sports to provide fans with access to rare collectibles. The company says its e-commerce and auction platforms, along with physical retail spaces, have generated millions in royalties for rights holders, teams, athletes and sponsors.
For collectors, the STR14 represents not only a milestone in Toro Rosso’s history but also a tangible link to one of the most dramatic moments of the 2019 season, when Gasly fended off Lewis Hamilton in a drag race to the finish line in São Paulo.
“This car is a true piece of modern Formula 1 heritage,” F1 Authentics said.
More information and the full listing are available at f1authentics.com.
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