Ferrari has revealed a revised livery for its 2019 SF90 Formula One car, celebrating the Scuderia’s 90th anniversary.
However, this switch wasn’t exactly planned, as the Italian outfit was forced to ditch its Mission Winnow branding (an initiative by title sponsor Philip Morris), due to Australian authorities investigating whether or not the branding complied with current tobacco advertising laws.
“Over the Australian Grand Prix weekend, the SF90 livery, the drivers’ race suits and some of the team’s track equipment will bear the logo celebrating 90 years of the Scuderia,” said the automaker in an official statement.
The press release went on to say that Melbourne will be just the “start of celebrations for this special anniversary, which will run throughout the Formula 1 season and also feature in the Prancing Horse company’s other racing activities.”
In May, the Ferrari Museum in Maranello will launch a special show dedicated to the anniversary, taking visitors on a journey through history.
Despite the Australian investigation, sponsor Philp Morris is adamant that its Mission Winnow initiative is fully compliant with tobacco advertising laws.
“The initiative and the symbols and logos used on the livery of the Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow and the website comply with the laws that apply to our activities in Australia and the State of Victoria,” said Philip Morris director of global communication, Tommaso di Giovanni.
However, other parties don’t feel that way, claiming that the shape of the Mission Winnow logo is too similar to Marlboro’s white and red chevron badge.
