On the finish of the U.S. GP in Austin, winner Charles Leclerc, runner-up Carlos Sainz, and third-place finisher Max Verstappen all stood on the rostrum — however one thing was lacking. Three issues, actually. Not one of the podium finishers of the U.S. Grand Prix had been awarded the much-hyped trophies from Pirelli that had been proven off within the days earlier than the race.
Dubbed “Heroo,” constructed by Pirelli, and designed by Italian artist Matteo Macchiavelli, every of the unique trophies had a black physique and articulating arms produced from carbon fiber, with a chromed head that matched the ending place: gold (sprinkled with precise gold mud) for first, silver for second, and titanium for third.
After the race, Pirelli confirmed to Motorsport.com that the corporate — along with the race promoter, and after informing the FIA — pulled the trophies from utilization as a result of it had been made conscious of potential similarities with different designs. (The trophies intently resemble sculptures and collectibles created by the brand Bearbrick.)
Sainz and Verstappen lofted miniature tires like those given as Saturday’s qualifying awards. Leclerc gave the impression to be holding a tall metallic tube-shaped trophy. All three needed to be flown in by Pirelli from one of many firm’s U.S. workplaces after it pulled the unique trophies, the corporate confirmed to Motorsport.com.
Pirelli launched the trophies in the beginning of the week, and showcased them on the grid the day earlier than the race, posing them on the pit wall and giving them their very own paddock move credentials. Pirelli additionally initially talked about that collectible “artwork toys” can be placed on sale for the general public, which additionally could have led to potential points.
Since Sunday’s race ended, Pirelli went as far as to take away the unique hyperlink on its press site announcing the trophies.