In a landmark transaction that has captivated the automotive and motorsport communities, Bernie Ecclestone, the 94-year-old former Formula One supremo, has sold his unparalleled collection of 69 historic Formula One and Grand Prix cars. The collection, valued at approximately £500 million (around $646 million), has been acquired by Mark Mateschitz, the 32-year-old heir to the Red Bull empire and son of the late Dietrich Mateschitz.
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A Legacy of Racing Excellence
Ecclestone’s collection is a veritable museum of motorsport history, encompassing over five decades of racing heritage. Among the crown jewels are:
Michael Schumacher’s 2002 Ferrari F2002, a car that clinched both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships that year.
Niki Lauda’s Brabham BT46B “fan car”, a revolutionary design that won its sole race before being banned.
Alberto Ascari’s 1951 Ferrari 375, which secured Ferrari’s first Grand Prix victory.
Stirling Moss’s Vanwall VW10, the first British car to win an F1 race and the Constructors’ Championship in 1958.
These vehicles are not merely collector’s items; they are tangible pieces of racing history, each with its own story and significance.
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Motivations Behind the Sale
Ecclestone’s decision to part with his cherished collection was driven by personal considerations. He expressed a desire to alleviate the burden on his wife, Fabiana, and their young son, Ace, stating:
> “With a bit of luck I might get two or three more years, and I don’t want to leave all this for Fabiana to sort. All these car dealers would be driving her mad.”
This sentiment underscores Ecclestone’s foresight and commitment to ensuring that his legacy is preserved without imposing challenges on his family.
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A Record-Breaking Transaction
The sale, facilitated by renowned car dealer Tom Hartley Jr., is considered the largest private car collection transaction in history. Hartley remarked:
> “There has never been a transaction in the collectors’ car world that even comes close to this. By several multiples, it is the biggest sale price ever achieved.”
While the exact sale price remains undisclosed, estimates place the value at around £500 million, reflecting the rarity and historical significance of the collection.
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The Future of the Collection
Mark Mateschitz has announced plans to make the collection accessible to the public, stating that it will be displayed in a museum setting. He emphasized his intention to preserve and potentially expand the collection, ensuring that these iconic vehicles continue to inspire and educate future generations.
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Conclusion
Bernie Ecclestone’s sale of his extraordinary car collection marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in motorsport heritage preservation. By entrusting the collection to Mark Mateschitz, Ecclestone ensures that these historic vehicles will continue to be celebrated and appreciated by enthusiasts around the