Former Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone, a legend in motorsport history, has made a monumental decision: he’s putting his iconic collection of 69 Formula 1 and Grand Prix cars up for sale.
According to CNN, the collection is valued at approximately $379 million (£300 million).
This makes it one of the world’s most valuable car collections, featuring rare and unique models that span more than five decades of motorsport history.
A Treasure Trove of Motorsport History
The collection boasts some of the most legendary racing cars ever produced:
Ferrari Racers driven by icons like Michael Schumacher and Niki Lauda.
Vanwall VW10, the first British car to win a Formula One race, piloted to victory by Stirling Moss in 1958.
Ferrari 375 F1, driven by Alberto Ascari, who claimed victory at the Italian Grand Prix.
The renowned "Thin Wall Special" Ferrari, which famously triumphed over Alfa Romeo in its prime.
Additionally, the collection includes notable Brabham models, such as:
Brabham BT46B, the innovative "fan car" designed by Gordon Murray and driven by Niki Lauda to victory at the 1978 Swedish Grand Prix.
Brabham BT45C, Lauda’s debut car for the team.
At 94 years old, Ecclestone says his decision to sell is motivated by a desire to preserve the cars’ legacy.
“All the cars I have bought over the years have fantastic racing histories and are rare works of art. But the time has come to think about what happens to them if I'm no longer here,” Ecclestone explained.
For him, ensuring that the cars end up with owners who appreciate their historical and cultural value is more important than leaving them as a potential burden for his family.
A Reflection of Formula 1’s Evolution
Ecclestone’s collection is more than just a group of cars—it’s a living record of Formula 1’s growth and transformation.
From the sport’s early days to modern championship machines, the collection embodies Ecclestone’s role in making Formula 1 the global phenomenon it is today.
“A Formula 1 vehicle is not just a car. It's the pinnacle of motorsport, and the cars I’ve collected all have great racing stories,” he said.
The Sales Process
The sale is being managed by Tom Hartley Jnr Ltd, a well-known expert in luxury and racing cars. With their help, the collection is expected to attract interest from the world’s top collectors and motorsport enthusiasts.
Although only a select few will be able to afford these extraordinary vehicles, the sale represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of motorsport history.
As the auction draws nearer, all eyes will be on the prices these iconic cars fetch and the buyers who secure them.
Will you be among the lucky few bidding for a Ferrari once driven by Schumacher or Lauda’s iconic Brabham?
One thing is certain: opportunities like this don’t come around often.
