The magical city of Venice hosted the world premiere of “Whatever it Takes”, a documentary film about Scuderia AlphaTauri, covering the history of the Faenza-based team since it first appeared on the Formula 1 scene back in 2006.
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In its first incarnation as Scuderia Toro Rosso, the team was initially conceived to provide two more cockpits and a way for Red Bull junior drivers to learn the craft of Grand Prix racing. It has been hugely successful in producing two world champions, Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, while a quarter of the 2023 grid comprises its former drivers.
Apart from looking back at its 18 years in the sport, the feature-length film takes the viewer behind the scenes at the Italian factory and in its wind tunnel in the UK. It provides a rare insight into what it takes to compete in motor racing’s blue riband category, featuring interviews with drivers and all the key players.
The film, created in co-production with Digital Lighthouse – the team’s Media Partner, and directed by Luca Curto, was shown to an invited audience of fans, team partners and press members during an event at the famous Palazzina Grassi. The event was hosted by Federica Masolin, the renowned presenter of Sky Italia’s Formula 1 coverage.
“Whatever it Takes”, a 90-minute film (Ita/Eng), which features Team Principal Franz Tost and F1 drivers Yuki Tsunoda and Pierre Gasly, will soon be viewable on Sky Italy.
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After the showing, Franz Tost, CEO Peter Bayer, Technical Director Jody Egginton and race driver Yuki Tsunoda, along with other team members featured in the film, took part in a media session on the terrace overlooking the canal. Interested fans, tourists and locals were given a hint of what was taking place inside the Palazzina because, having travelled on a unique barge down Venice’s famous Canal Grande, last year’s car, the AT03, was moored outside the venue. After the premiere, the racing car “sailed” down the canal to a new location, Fondamenta Zattere al Ponte Lungo, where it provided the backdrop for a Fan Activation featuring Yuki and Federica, who were happy to sign autographs and pose for pictures.
Franz Tost, Scuderia AlphaTauri Team Principal:
It’s a fascinating film which shows many behind-the-scenes details. I think Formula 1 fans want to see this, and the documentary shows it quite well. It’s a lot of work, not only on Sunday with the race but all the technical, marketing and press preparation. All these different topics must be coordinated for a successful job during the race weekend.
Peter Bayer, Scuderia AlphaTauri CEO:
It was a spectacular event after the Film festival in the heart of Venice. Scuderia AlphaTauri brought a car to a city without cars, and we allowed people who attended the premiere to get a glimpse of our life, emotions and daily work. I believe this film is a must-see for every Formula 1 fan!
Yuki Tsunoda, Scuderia AlphaTauri Driver:
I saw many things I didn’t know – how the team operates in the background and the amount of people, time and effort put into only two cars. I feel honoured to be one of the two drivers of Scuderia AlphaTauri and to be able to drive such a high-technology machine. It was nice to see some flashbacks, especially in 2021, my first year in Formula 1, and the drivers who have driven for our team. I can say Scuderia AlphaTauri has built a lot of good drivers, and the number of achievements they’ve accomplished is incredible. I’m even more excited and motivated to fight strong for the remainder of the season.
