Toro Rosso's STR14 gets the green light from the FIA

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Toro Rosso's 2019 car - or at least its tub - received a clean bill of health from the FIA this week, the team's STR14 successfully completing its mandatory crash test.

Just like road cars, F1 cars must complete a stringent evaluation before their homologation for use in the upcoming season.

Conducted at either the FIA-approved Cranfield Impact Centre in Bedfordshire, England or at the CSI facility at Bollate, near Milan, the test involves a series of dynamic impact verifications performed on the front, sides, and rear of the chassis, plus the steering column.

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A further 13 static load tests are also carried out on the chassis' front, side and rear structures in order to ensure that the respective areas can withstand the high levels of pressure required by the regulations.

Toro Rosso will entrust its Honda-powered STR14 to an all-new line-up comprised of F1 returnee Daniil Kvyat and rookie Alexander Albon.

The Faenza-based squad has not yet revealed the presentation date of its STR14, but it will likely follow its tradition of unveiling its charger in the Barcelona pitlane before the start of pre-season testing.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.