The Toro Rosso Formula 1 team has made a formal request to change its entry name for the 2020 season.
Red Bull acquired the operation, then known as Minardi, in 2005, and rebranded it as Toro Rosso for 2006.
That name was chosen to reflect Toro Rosso’s Italian heritage and location, and it has since acted as Red Bull’s junior team, and has occasionally promoted other drinks available through the company.
Drivers such as Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen began their full-time Formula 1 careers with Toro Rosso, with Vettel famously claiming victory at the 2008 Italian Grand Prix.
Daniil Kvyat added Toro Rosso’s second podium finish with third place at this year’s German Grand Prix.
Toro Rosso has applied to change its name to AlphaTauri, which is the clothing brand that was launched by Red Bull in 2016.
AlphaTauri was named in honour of the AlphaTauri star, which according to the company is the brightest star in the constellation of Taurus, which is the bull.
The name change still requires approval from the FIA and from the F1 Commission that composes the 10 Formula 1 teams, which can be completed by e-vote.
Should the request be approved then it would be the third team to change its entry name in just 12 months, following Force India’s transition to Racing Point, and Sauber’s switch to Alfa Romeo.
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