Official launch of the STR3 in Monaco

Toro Rosso has no regrets about introducing its new car in Monaco this weekend even though the dangers are compounded by unfavorable weather forecasts.

The team has given the green light for the introduction of the STR3 following successful tests at the Paul Ricard circuit in France last week.

And although there is a risk of accidents and therefore a potential shortage of spare parts, the team’s technical director, Giorgio Ascanelli, does not want to delay the launch of the new car.

« I am both brave and crazy as everyone knows, » said Ascanelli.

« The introduction of a new car in Monaco, especially when the weather is unfavorable, can jeopardize our availability in terms of spare parts. Nevertheless, other reasons lead us to introduce two new cars here. »

« First of all, delaying the debut of the STR3 would mean less running and less experience with the car, which is crucial. The launch would be further delayed, which is not a good thing. »

« Secondly, Monte Carlo would have been a step too far for the old car, the STR2B, as the circuit’s demands are too high for this single-seater. It was designed last year with a different gearbox, bodywork, and wings that we had not planned for this Grand Prix, » he added.

Ascanelli believes that the new car should gain the team up to half a second per lap, which should be enough, in theory, to secure a place in Q2.

« I don’t like to talk about numbers, but the car will be similar to the Red Bull at the start of this season. We hope to gain between three-tenths and half a second compared to the STR2B. »