One of the most celebrated Formula One cars driven by seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher is expected to command a staggering price at an upcoming auction.
RM Sotheby’s will offer the 2006 Ferrari 248 F1 in November, with estimates suggesting it could sell for over US$10 million (around NZ$16.5 million), potentially shattering existing auction records for Formula One cars.
This particular 248 F1 is the fifth of eight chassis built for the 2006 F1 season, a year that saw Schumacher notch five victories.
The car made its debut at the San Marino Grand Prix in Imola, where Schumacher secured pole position and followed it up with a race win.
Schumacher’s tactical prowess was on full display at the Nurburgring, where a clever pitstop strategy propelled him to another victory, despite starting from second.
The car continued its strong performance with podium finishes in Spain, Britain and Canada. Notably, it also clinched wins at the United States and French Grands Prix, cementing its place in motorsport history.
After its competitive career, the Ferrari 248 F1 was retired following the Hungarian Grand Prix and made one last appearance at Ferrari’s Finali Mondiali at Monza, where Schumacher took it for a final lap.
In December 2007, a private collector purchased the car directly from Ferrari. It has since been maintained in pristine condition, receiving Ferrari Classiche certification and being used in select private test sessions at Fiorano.
In 2017, the car was displayed at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles during the 'Seeing Red: 70 Years of Ferrari' exhibition, further highlighting its historical significance.
Given its remarkable racing pedigree and connection to one of Formula 1’s greatest drivers, the 2006 Ferrari 248 F1 is poised to break records.
RM Sotheby’s anticipates fierce bidding when the car goes under the hammer, with the potential to become one of the most expensive Schumacher-driven F1 cars ever sold.
For collectors and racing fans alike, this is an opportunity to own a piece of motorsport history.
