Speed, legacy, and dreams: These words best suit the Italian Grand Prix. Held at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza circuit, the ‘Temple of Speed’ is ready for some live-action yet again. But before we proceed, a question: What makes one F1 race different from the other? You may think it’s the winner or the most basic answer would be the location or tracks. But no, that’s not all; the unique trophies that our winners get in the different races add a pinch of singularity week after week. Of course, the 2024 Italian GP would be no exception, however, there seems to be a slight issue.

Over the last 75 years, F1 has had a series of iconic trophies, from the 1989 Mexican GP, Copper Jug trophy to 2023’s Kiss Activated trophies in the Japanese GP. Pirelli has done this mammoth task for years, and thanks to their innovation, we get to see new trophies in every race. So, taking up the noble task once again, the Italian manufacturers have come up with an innovative trophy. At the 2024 Italian Grand Prix in Monza, Pirelli will award VROOOM trophies by Andrea Sala, symbolizing speed and Pirelli’s history. A special edition Italian flag podium cap will also be featured.

Andrea Sala’s design for Monza is an amalgamation of legacy and abstract art. The contemporary artist has invested every ounce of his brilliance in creating the VROOOM trophies. “The name VROOOM captures what I wanted to represent, namely the image of Formula 1 I have always had since I was a child: the start, the cars lined up on the grid, the lights going out, and the sprint down to the first corner. The trophy transforms this moment – the starting point for everything, the sprint, the speed – into a sculpture.” The designer shared.

But the problem is the looks, fans aren’t buying it. A historic track like Monza, the home race of Ferrari, the ‘Temple of Speed’ can’t be justified with what looks like a new type of waffle maker according to many enthusiasts. It seems that they are disappointed and cannot imagine anyone, including Lewis Hamilton or Max Verstappen, holding this piece. Are the fans being a bit too harsh and skeptical? Maybe.

Fans lash out at the first glance of the VROOOM trophies for the 2024 Italian GP

What looks like abstract art for the makers has now become an eyesore for the fans. Seeing a ‘mesh’ for a trophy was the last thing motorsport enthusiasts would’ve wanted. Moreover, there’s been zero words of appreciation for Pirelli. The 2024 Italian GP’s unique trophy is under fire for allegedly being the ugliest piece of work ever.

The frustration is palpable. Fans are just not willing to see their favorite drivers holding this piece of art. But history says that F1 has had a record of exceptional trophies. We could rewind to 35 years ago when fancy-looking trophies were just another sight in F1. Critics called the 1989 Brazilian GP trophy ‘way too tacky.’ So much so, that Nigel Mansell cut his finger while lifting his symbol of victory. Of course, we may not see the reiteration of the same in the 2024 Italian GP, but this backlash won’t be favorable for the makers.

It’s rather disappointing when a design gets called by a different name. At least, a ‘fancy waffle press’ couldn’t have possibly been on Pirelly’s 2024 Bingo Cards. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton himself questioned the design 2017 British GP trophy. Yet another throwback just to remind you, that these incidents aren’t new in F1. We know, Silverstone has one of the most iconic trophies. When they replaced it with a peculiar-looking trophy shaped like the Santander logo, the 7x champ wasn’t happy. Who knows, the VROOOM might face something similar in Monza!

A car’s gas pedal looks similar to the trophies of the 2024 Italian GP- that’s what some fans believe. Again, this isn’t a particular compliment as it compares to something off-track. The VROOOM is a unique representation of speed and acceleration at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza. The trophies look extraordinary, but fans are expressing dissatisfaction. Maybe, they wanted something more grand and glamorous for the historic circuit. So, the black and silver piece isn’t acceptable to them.

Meanwhile, some of the supporters are sending out adjectives without beating around the bush. Such an adverse reaction must be alarming for Pirelli and its designer Andrea Sala. However, what’s done is done. Fans have to understand the fact that the organizers have approved the design, understanding the need for uniqueness and art amidst the fast-paced world of F1. So, to a large extent, the FIA and the F1 boards are responsible for the trophies.

Someone compared the VROOOM trophies with Brass Knuckle. Yes, the hand-to-hand combat equipment, which can be lethal even with the lightest blow. Surprisingly, the resemblance to a greater degree is absolutely uncanny. We also cannot ignore the fact, that fans are coming up with out-of-the-box comparisons as well. We need to see how the makers will react to this setback. Although we can’t expect much, we never know what might happen next.

At the end of the race, the winner, the winning team, and the points will matter the most. The stage is set for the 2024 Italian GP, and none of the criticisms for any segment will matter anymore. Of course, the event cannot be postponed because the viewers don’t like the way the trophies look. But at least, this backlash could be a lesson for the makers to be more cautious about the designs, especially for the historic circuits. What is your take on this? Share below