The Ferrari F2001 racing car driven by Michael Schumacher in the 2001 season was sold at the prestigious RM Sotheby’s auction for $18.17 million. Thus, this car became the most expensive copy of the Formula 1 car, which was once driven by Schumacher – one of the most successful drivers in the history of motor sports. About this informs The New York Times.
The example sold is chassis number 211, which has a special significance in the history of Ferrari and Formula 1. It was at the wheel of this car that the German driver won two key victories in 2001 — at the Monaco Grand Prix and the Hungarian Grand Prix. Both races were landmark not only in terms of Schumacher’s personal success, but also in the context of Ferrari’s team strategy. In particular, the victory in Monaco – one of the most difficult city tracks – demonstrated the impeccable technical preparation of the car, as well as the stability and skill of the pilot in high-pressure conditions.
In 2001, Schumacher prematurely became the world champion – his fourth title in Formula 1, and his second with Ferrari. It was from this season that the German’s five-year dominance in the championship began: from 2000 to 2004, he won back-to-back titles, and Ferrari established itself as the most successful team of the era.
The purchased car not only has historical sports value, but also remains fully functional – RM Sotheby’s notes that the car has been kept in technically working condition and has been serviced according to Ferrari Classiche standards. Therefore, its new owner – the auction does not disclose the name of the buyer – will be able to take the car to the track if he wants.
This sale is not the first time that Schumacher’s cars have been put up for auction. In 2017, the Ferrari F2001 (different chassis) sold for $7.5 million, and in 2022, the Ferrari F2003-GA sold for over $14.8 million. However, the current sale has become an absolute record among all Schumacher Formula 1 cars ever put up for public auction.
Outside of his racing career, Michael Schumacher’s name continues to attract public attention. In December 2013, after completing his professional career, he suffered a severe brain injury while skiing in Meribel, France. Schumacher fell and hit his head on a rock despite wearing a protective helmet. He was taken to the hospital in a coma. Since then, he has been in private treatment and his family tightly controls access to any information about his condition. There are no credible medical reports, and public statements from family members or former colleagues are very limited.
Meanwhile, demand for related items — such as helmets, coveralls, or bolides — is undiminished. His legacy as a seven-time Formula 1 champion, the driver who took Ferrari to the pinnacle of success after a decade-long hiatus, remains iconic to motorsport. And the sale of the car for more than $18 million is another testament to this lasting value, cemented not only by sporting achievements, but also by the place it occupied in the collective memory of fans and colleagues.
