Bernie Ecclestone, the former boss of Formula 1 and one of the most influential figures in motorsport history, is parting with his extraordinary collection of rare Grand Prix cars. The collection, valued at approximately $400 million, is being offered for private sale through the U.K. dealership Tom Hartley Jnr. This marks a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire some of the most historically significant racing cars ever built.
Ecclestone, who turned 94 in October, built a legacy not only as a pioneering F1 executive but also as a passionate car collector. His collection includes 69 meticulously maintained Grand Prix cars, many of which have remained out of public view since they were acquired. Ecclestone’s preference for vehicles with rich racing pedigrees or artistic significance is evident in the lineup, which includes championship-winning machines driven by F1 legends such as Michael Schumacher, Niki Lauda, and Mike Hawthorn.
Among the highlights are the first Ferrari to win a Formula 1 race and the innovative Brabham BT46B “fan car,” a vehicle that redefined aerodynamic engineering during its brief yet memorable stint on the track.
In a statement explaining his decision to sell, Ecclestone said: “I love all of my cars, but the time has come for me to start thinking about what will happen to them should I no longer be here. After collecting and owning them for so long, I would like to know where they have gone and not leave them for my wife to deal with should I not be around.”
Unlike traditional auctions, the sale of these vehicles will be handled privately, with transactions overseen by Tom Hartley Jnr. Collectors can purchase individual cars rather than the entire collection, making this an accessible chance to own a piece of motorsport history.
Ecclestone’s collection reflects not just the evolution of Formula 1 but also his decades-long impact on the sport. For fans and collectors, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own vehicles that represent the pinnacle of automotive and racing heritage.
Elizabeth Puckett