A piece of Formula 1 history is set to go under the hammer as Michael Schumacher's last Ferrari race car from the 2006 season heads to auction, with experts predicting it could fetch over $15 million.
The Legendary Ferrari 248 F1
The 2006 Ferrari 248 F1, chassis number 254, represents a significant moment in Formula 1 history:
- Last Ferrari F1 car raced by Michael Schumacher
- Achieved five Grand Prix victories in the 2006 season
- Marks the end of Schumacher's dominant era with Ferrari
This car was instrumental in Schumacher's final championship battle against Fernando Alonso, showcasing the German driver's legendary skills in his last season with the Scuderia.
Technical Specifications
The Ferrari 248 F1 boasts impressive performance capabilities:
- 2.4-liter V8 engine
- Power output: Approximately 750 horsepower
- Advanced aerodynamics and electronic systems
- First V8-powered Ferrari F1 car since 1964
Historical Significance
This particular chassis holds several notable distinctions:
- Schumacher's final pole position and race win were achieved in this car
- Used to surpass Ayrton Senna's record for pole positions
- First Ferrari driven by Kimi Räikkönen during pre-season testing in 2007
Auction Details
RM Sotheby's will conduct the auction on November 14, 2024:
- Sealed bidding format, typically reserved for high-value items
- Pre-auction estimate: In excess of $15 million
- If achieved, it would become one of the most expensive F1 cars ever sold
Market Context
Michael Schumacher's Final Ferrari F1 Car Heads to Auction with $15 Million Estimate
Schumacher's F1 cars have consistently commanded high prices at auction:
- His 2003 chassis sold for $14.9 million in 2022
- Cars from 2001 and 2002 each sold for over £5 million
The current record for an F1 car at auction is held by Juan Manuel Fangio's 1954 Mercedes W196, which sold for approximately $29.6 million in 2013.Ending statement:As this iconic Ferrari 248 F1 heads to auction, it represents not just a remarkable piece of automotive engineering, but a tangible connection to one of Formula 1's greatest drivers at the pinnacle of his career. The sale of this car is likely to attract significant attention from collectors and motorsport enthusiasts alike, potentially setting a new benchmark for F1 car values.
