Berger back in F1
Former grand prix driver Gerhard Berger will return to Formula One with Scuderia Toro Rosso after buying half the team.
The Austrian, a former McLaren and Ferrari racer, was today unveiled as the new owner of 50% of Toro Rosso, which Red Bull bought from Paul Stoddart last year.
The team, formerly known as Minardi, are preparing for their first year as Toro Rosso after being established in order to give young Red Bull-backed drivers a chance to cut their teeth in Formula One.
Berger will have direct involvement in the running of Toro Rosso, as well as an advisory role in how Red Bull Racing approach their second season.
As part of the deal, Red Bull have bought half of Berger’s shipping company.
Berger said: “Three birds with one stone. The involvement of a company like Red Bull is an important milestone for the Berger shipping company and for its successful future development.
“On the other hand, I am aware that my Formula One know-how is very much valued by Red Bull in general and by the Italian Toro Rosso team in particular.
“Last but not least I’m looking forward to not only continuing to have a great time with [Red Bull owner] Dietrich Mateschitz, but also to being able to implement serious and visionary business developments together in the future.”
Mateschitz added: “I have known and admired Gerhard for 20 years. Eighteen years ago, he was the first top athlete to drink Red Bull and therefore to make a significant contribution to our growth and to the brand in Austria.
“I am particularly pleased that we will now be able to take advantage of the synergies that undoubtedly exist between us also for joint business activities.”
Berger’s last involvement in Formula One was as head of BMW’s engine programme, but he stepped aside from that role in 2003.
