SportPesa Racing Point begins new F1 era with unveil of fan-friendly livery

Racing Point became the latest and one of the most eagerly anticipated teams to unveil its 2019 machine as the new Lawrence Stoll led outfit began life under its new name and brand-new livery.

Streamed live online at the Canadian International Auto Show, new teammates Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez pulled the covers off what will now be called SportPesa Racing Point. And the livery did not disappoint.

The moment @SChecoPerez and @lance_stroll unveil the 2019 @SportPesa Racing Point car #MakeItCount #WeAreReady pic.twitter.com/XMmWoRQIa5

— SportPesa Racing Point F1 Team (@RacingPointF1) February 13, 2019

Sporting its new title sponsor and existing partners including BWT and Acronis, the color scheme stuck with the iconic pink that characterized the Force India years, but with more blue on the chassis, especially over the engine cover.

“SportPesa is a young, dynamic, growing company whose values align with our own vision to become a team capable of competing at the very front of the grid,” commented team boss Otmar Szafnauer. “We are excited to have such an ambitious partner on board to help us deliver our team mission and look forward to working with them to bring the sport of Formula One closer to fans around the world. The car looks stunning with the addition of blue to the already iconic pink livery, which gives us a strong identity as we begin this exciting new era.”

Formula One’s newest team presented its fresh look today as @SChecoPerez and @lance_stroll launched @SportPesa Racing Point F1 Team in Toronto, Canada, in front of 200 media, hundreds of fans and select VIP guests.

Full Story: https://t.co/QkcXeCSlsp#MakeItCount #WeAreReady pic.twitter.com/7vQbXQvYjg

— SportPesa Racing Point F1 Team (@RacingPointF1) February 13, 2019

Most fans of the Force India team will be happy with the continuation of a livery that gave the team the affectionate nickname of ‘Pink Panthers’ in the F1 paddock. The chassis will be known as the RP19.

“BWT’s superior water technology and iconic pink color has made our cars immediately recognizable and a fan-favourite,” added Szafnauer. “We have enjoyed a lot of success together over the last few years and we’re convinced the best is yet to come.”

As the launch came to an end, Szafnauer thanked existing partners, including Acronis, for their continued input into a team with ambitions to challenge for race victories in 2019 and eventually break into the ‘big three’ in Formula One.

The Acronis Mission Control Centre in Silverstone will be monitoring proceedings with interest in what promises to be a fascinating season ahead.