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Made for gearheads, car lovers, F1 and Racing Fans of all kinds and ages– Some hand-picked items you will be genuinely excited to both give and receive this holiday season. It’s my version of a Motorsports Gift Guide made by a devoted fan, and done without compensation.
Season's greetings, fellow race enthusiasts and families!
I'm Andy, and I'm thrilled to share some exciting F1 and motorsports-related gift ideas for 2023. This year, I've discovered new items, including books for both kids and adults, fresh merchandise, and a range of enjoyable toys and gadgets.
As a passionate motorsports enthusiast (okay, let's admit it, I'm really obsessed!), motorsports have become a significant part of my life. I've been particularly excited about these racing-inspired treasures in 2023, and I wanted to share them with you as the holiday season approaches. While it might be too late to get some of these gifts before Christmas Day (my apologies, I've been busy working on a new book!), I believe they would still make excellent presents for fellow fans.
These are some interesting finds that I believe you'll love if you share my racing passion. Whether it's Christmas, Hanukkah, birthdays, or any other special occasion, these selections are ideal for the motorsport enthusiasts in your life.
It's essential to note that I'm not an expert, and I'm not receiving any compensation for endorsing these products. These are simply items that have added excitement to my life and may do the same for you.
Here's to a fantastic holiday season and a wonderful winter break!
Andy Amendola, Founder and Creator of Red Racer Books
THE MERCH AND OTHER COOL STUFF
FOR FAN GIRLS AND BOYS, F1 DRIVER FANS, AND SWIFTIES
YourShopLittleArt: Max Verstappen The Eras Tour Shirt Vintage Racing Tshirt
Perfect for Max Verstappen and Taylor Swift Fans or Anyone Looking to Spark Conversations and Attract Compliments. I'm giving this shirt as a gift for a car-themed Secret Santa / White Elephant exchange, and I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone's reactions! But you'll find these in various other driver versions as well, including Lewis Hamilton and Daniel Ricciardo styles.
Two Girls 1 Formula Merch Shop
Kate and Nicole, also known as Two Girls 1 Formula (TG1F), have an exceptional podcast and community. They provide a safe haven for F1 enthusiasts who may feel marginalized in male-dominated spaces. Beyond their podcast, they offer fantastic merchandise, including fun and humorous gifts suitable for all. Their Ricciardhoe line is particularly impressive, and they've expanded to include home goods like stunning floral blankets.
Fifth Gear Garms
If you're in search of stylish, handmade, and fashionable merchandise, be sure to explore Fifth Gear Garms. They've crafted a fantastic range of shirts, hoodies, accessories, and more, featuring your beloved drivers, teams, and circuits from the world of F1. Their collection is undeniably cool—I personally ordered one of the Monaco sweatshirts, as Monaco is one of my favorite circuits.
Sunday Fangirls
If you're on the hunt for sophisticated and stylish merchandise designed for the future of fandom, don't miss the latest S.M.C - 002 drop by F1 Toni, also known as Toni Cowan-Brown. If you haven't already, check out her insightful commentary on the convergence of culture and politics in F1 racing. And be sure to explore her Sunday Fangirls collection. I've personally ordered the cement hoodie for both myself and my wife, and we're eagerly anticipating their arrival.
McLaren Graphic Crew Sweatshirt
If you're someone who loves strolling through malls or has a soft spot for classic retail stores like PacSun (formerly known as Pacific Sunwear) or Abercrombie and Fitch, you might want to check out their F1 collections. I recently picked up this fantastic retro McLaren MP4 race car sweater at Abercrombie, and let me tell you, it's been a real hit. Not only does it spark interesting conversations, but it's also incredibly soft and comfy. My only worry is how long I'll get to keep it before my wife or kids decide to steal it for its coziness! And my son loves his long-sleeve mclaren graphic tee too.
FOR PET LOVERS AND FERRARI FANS:
Perfect for pet lovers and passionate Scuderia Ferrari fans, including dedicated dog and cat owners, as well as those who might feel like "tortured tifosi." It even doubles as a stress toy! Here's a pic of our dog Skye enjoying hers!
Formula 1 Parody Dog Toy Car by Chin and Tonic Designs
FOR F1 TRAVEL AND HOME DESIGN
An ideal haven for travelers exploring Scottsdale, Arizona, and those with a passion for chic, stylish homes! This Airbnb retreat is meticulously adorned with F1 memorabilia, art, and more, all envisioned by Mikaela, also known as @SheLovesF1. It's a place I'd love to stay at someday!
Fabulous F1 Themed Getaway Old Town Scottsdale
By Mikaela aka She Loves F1
FOR A GREAT HALLOWEEN COSTUME
Every time I put on my Charles Leclerc-style Ferrari racing suit (some folks call it a firesuit or jumpsuit), it never fails to draw comments and questions. Let me be clear, it's not the real deal, but it looks strikingly authentic. What's more, it's a steal at just $85. I've worn mine for Halloween and even when I've gone karting. But be warned, wearing a Ferrari race suit will definitely make you stand out, and in the summertime, it can get pretty darn hot. However, you'll find similar suits featuring other drivers and teams if that's more your style.
F1 SHELL GO KART RACE SUIT
TOYS FOR KIDS
FOR PARENTS LOOKING TO RAISE THE NEXT SENNA
RIDINGTON 24V Kids Electric Go-Kart with DRIFT Function
If you want to introduce your kids to karting, this is an excellent choice at just $295. While various kids' karts are available across different price ranges, this one provides outstanding value. Although there are more advanced options like the Segway creators' $1,799.99 model, we opted for this kart last Christmas to stay within budget.
While it may lack fancy features and predicting battery life can be a challenge, the primary focus is on fun. It has quickly become a favorite for both my son and daughter. With two speeds and an exciting drift mode, it offers an exhilarating experience for my 8 and 9-year-old kids. The sheer delight on their faces, along with the excitement on their friends' faces while driving it, is truly priceless.
FOR KIDS WHO LOVE MARIO KART
If your kids are into Mario Kart and you own a Nintendo Switch, this is an incredibly cool toy. It allows you to bring the game to life in your living room using a real remote control car. Race a physical Mario Kart through your home, using the Nintendo Switch system to control your kart, and observe how it reacts to in-game events as you boost and drift your way to victory. Your in-home course springs to life on-screen, providing a view from right behind the driver's seat, and it's genuinely neat!
FOR TODDLERS + YOUNG KIDS WHO LOVE CREATIVE PLAY
Waytoplay Toy Track Racing Sets
Waytoplay toys have always been a family favorite, and this year, we've teamed up to create some fantastic bundles together. These toys feature exceptionally flexible, ultra-durable, and waterproof tracks in various varieties. They allow your children to play with their existing collection of cars and trucks right at home. Plus, they've introduced some new runway track sets with airplane themes, adding even more fun to the mix!
THE BOOKS AND PRINTED MATTER
FOR FANS OF F1 CULTURE, TRAVEL, DESIGN AND STYLE:
RACEWKND LAS VEGAS
A superb choice for those looking to proudly display their F1 passion with a touch of elegance - it's tre chic! And don't miss out on the exciting new standalone of this magazine/coffee table book series, a collaboration between Lewis Hamilton's +44 brand and Wynn Resorts, celebrating the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix.
FOR EUROPEAN AND MOTORSPORT HISTORY LOVERS
The Racers How an Outcast Driver, an American Heiress, and a Legendary Car Challenged Hitler's Best - by Neal Bascomb (Young Adult)
Or the original version: Faster: How a Jewish Driver, an American Heiress, and a Legendary Car Beat Hitler's Best
As well as racing purists, vintage car lovers, non-fiction aficionados, and admirers of pioneering women in motorsport.A gripping Young Adult book about early 1930s grand prix racing, filled with daring individuals. Titled "How an Outcast Driver, an American Heiress, and a Legendary Car Challenged Hitler's Best," this non-fiction gem introduces captivating characters, thrilling races, and remarkable cars that leave you eager for more.
FOR AMERICAN HISTORY / MOTORSPORTS HISTORY LOVERS
Blood and Smoke - A True Tale of Mystery, Mayhem and the Birth of the Indy 500 by Charles Leerhsen
This book is a captivating account of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway's development and the inaugural Indy 500. It was created to showcase the daring and controversial sport of automobile racing in the early 1900s. Perfect for vintage car enthusiasts, residents of Indianapolis, Indiana, and, most importantly, fans of the INDY 500 and the Indycar series.
“It is the story of America at the dawn of the automobile age, a country in love with speed, danger, and spectacle.”
For Formula 1 fans (particularly during the early aughts 2000-2009)
The Mechanic: The Secret World of the F1 Pitlane by Marc 'Elvis' Priestley
It's a must-read for dedicated McLaren and Kimi Räikkönen enthusiasts. Additionally, if you're curious about the early days of the Hamilton-Alonso rivalry or crave an insider's look at Formula 1, including the behind-the-scenes happenings in the garage and during pit stops, this book is a gem. Plus, if you prefer audiobooks, you'll love that it's narrated by the author himself, Marc ‘Elvis’ Priestley!
BOOKS FOR KIDS
For Spanish-speaking kids and fans of women in motorsport
"La Niña Más Veloz Que el Viento" (The Girl who is Faster than the Wind) by Gaby Cordero.
Including those who have a special place in their hearts for Colombia, This book is about Colombian race car driver Tatiana Calderon, who broke barriers in motorsports by competing in IndyCar, Super Formula, F2, and WEC, and driving an F1 race car. "La Niña Más Veloz Que el Viento" highlights her journey from kart racing in childhood to conquering gender stereotypes in motorsports.
FOR DEVOTED WEC FANS AND LOVERS OF THE ICONIC 24 HOURS OF LE MANS RACE
During our family travels in Europe this summer, I came across a pair of intriguing, specially crafted books that commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the historic Le Mans race. If you have someone in mind who is passionate about endurance racing, the legendary Le Mans event, or is simply a fan of all things French, these two exquisite books make for wonderful gifts.
TAZIO MAGAZINE - 100 Years 24HR Le Mans
Tazio, a premium and delightfully retro-designed quarterly publication from Belgium, has curated a special edition. This edition delves into the rich history of 100 years of racing at Le Mans, accompanied by stunning illustrations and photography.
BD 24 HEURES DU MANS 1923-2023 - 100 ANS D'INNOVATIONS
Here's a stunning hardcover graphic novel, akin to a luxurious comic book, celebrating the centenary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Please note that the book is in French, but the illustrations alone are truly captivating. It pays homage to 24 iconic cars that graced the Le Mans race, and while victory may not have been their fate, they all etched their names in history through technological innovations in their respective eras. I discovered this gem while walking through Paris and found this amazing book store in St.Germain called Traits D'Esprit.
As we wrap up our motorsports gift guide, I really hope you've come across something that got you excited. Whether you're super into Formula 1, have a soft spot for vintage cars, or just want some unique gifts, there's a little gem here for everyone.
And if you're curious about my own series of kids' books all about racing, here's a little treat for you – a 20% OFF discount code: F1Festive. Just head over to this link to use it!
Happy reading, racing and holidays!
