Alberto F. Roth and his Minerva – racing in Argentina

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This photograph shows Alberto F. Roth, a prominent Argentine figure of his time, behind the wheel of a Minerva racing car. Taken during a competition in Argentina, it captures Roth just before the start, his determined expression mirrored by his mechanic seated beside him. The small inset photo shows the Minerva at full speed, racing down a dusty country road while spectators – or perhaps just curious passers-by – watch the spectacle from close by.

Minerva has often been discussed here, frequently accompanied by mysterious photographs. This particular example, clearly stripped down for racing and bearing the marks of hard use, adds another Belgian riddle to the list. Was this Minerva imported from Belgium in this configuration, or was it perhaps modified locally to suit Argentine racing conditions? The exact model remains uncertain – could it be a sporting derivative of the 20CV or 30CV?

So, we turn to you, our readers: does anyone recognize this Minerva? Any information about the model, its racing history, or how it found its way to Argentina would be most welcome.

Text and photo by Charles SG Walmsley

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