McLaren raised just under $20 million in Abu Dhabi as three future competition cars offered in a one-off “Triple Crown” auction drew significant attention from collectors. Held with RM Sotheby’s, the sale highlighted upcoming machinery from the team’s Formula 1, IndyCar and World Endurance Championship programs, all positioned as unique opportunities tied to future seasons and exclusive experiences.
The least expensive entry was the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Dallara DW12-Chevrolet that Pato O’Ward will race at the Indianapolis 500 in May. It sold for $848,750, offering the buyer delivery in 2028 along with a package of VIP access at the Indy 500 and other team events.
McLaren’s forthcoming WEC Hypercar, a Dallara-built LMDh model set to debut in 2027, was the auction’s middle offering but came at a far higher price. The prototype brought $7,598,750 and includes delivery after its first season, race-ready equipment, and hospitality access to major global races, including Le Mans and Monaco. The buyer will also receive documentation of the car’s competitive history and exclusive opportunities at McLaren events.
The top seller was the 2026 McLaren MCL40A-Mercedes Formula 1 car, which achieved $11,480,000. The winning bidder will eventually receive a running example configured with a 2026-spec Mercedes power unit, though strict intellectual property protections mean the handover will occur in 2028. Until then, McLaren will supply a non-running 2025 display car. The purchase also includes access to team personnel, VIP attendance at key races, and the chance to select a chassis used by either Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri.
Across all three lots, McLaren paired each car with exclusive access, track opportunities and hospitality packages, underscoring the brand’s effort to offer more than just collectible machinery. The near-$20 million total reflects growing demand for modern race cars, especially those tied to future competition programs and direct factory involvement.
Source
Shawn Henry