Pirelli was forced to replace the podium trophies at Austin following legal concerns over their “Heroo” design.
The race sponsor, Pirelli, and the organizers of the United States Grand Prix had to quickly abandon their plan for new trophies designed by a designer for the podium in Austin.
The trophies commissioned by Pirelli, designed and built by Italian designer Matteo Machiavelli and affectionately called “Heroo,” were unveiled with great fanfare a few days before the United States Grand Prix.
To some, the trophies resembled Lego figures with Daft Punk-style helmets and Mickey Mouse ears.
However, Charles Leclerc ultimately received a much more standard trophy on the podium – the second and third-place drivers were given miniature replicas of Pirelli tires, similar to those awarded to pole position drivers (see photos below).
The decision to withdraw the trophies was made by race sponsor Pirelli after consulting with Formula 1. This was to avoid legal disputes, as “Heroo” was accused of being too similar to a famous designer toy already on the market called “Bearbrick.”
After an initial complaint was received, Pirelli acted quickly in agreement with the organizers to implement a Plan B and avoid repercussions.
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Austin Podium Sees Last-Minute Trophy Change Amid Dispute Austin Podium Sees Last-Minute Trophy Change Amid Dispute
