An example of the last Toyota Formula 1 car to race has been listed in an online charity auction organised by the FIA.
The #RaceAgainstCovid auction has received items from teams and drivers across the world. It will be organised by RM Sotheby’s and held in aid of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Cresent Societies. The FIA has already pledged $NZ1.8million to the organisation.
The donated chassis – TF109-01 – was tested early in the 2009 season by Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock. Its sister car earned five podiums as well as a pole position. Toyota finished fifth in the constructor’s championship.
However, the Japanese brand pulled out of the championship at the conclusion of the year, abandoning its 2010 project.
The TF109-01 subsequently became Pirelli’s tyre test car, and was driven by Nick Heidfeld, Pedro de la Rosa, Lucas di Grassi and Romain Grosjean. The example remains in Pirelli’s livery and comes complete with engine and gearbox.
Other items include overalls from both Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc used in the 2019 Formula 1 season as well as a chance to spend a day in the Maranello simulator. Mercedes too have offered suits and other items from Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas.
Speaking ahead of the auction, FIA president Jean Todt has urged the motorsport community to band together to help those in need in these times.
“Since the beginning of the health crisis the FIA and the entire motor sport community have been committed to fighting the pandemic through many initiatives such as #RaceAgainstCovid.
“Today, we have another opportunity to show our strength and unity. I very much welcome the FIA and RM Sotheby’s collaboration for the benefit of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ global response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I thank all the drivers and teams for their contributions as well as the FIA Foundation for its generous donation. To ensure this auction the success it deserves, I urge each and every one of our motorsport family to join us.”
The auction opens via rmsothebys.com on June 15, and will close on June 22.