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Former Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone, 94, is selling a portion of his legendary private grand prix car collection, a move he says reflects his desire to plan for the future of his prized vehicles. The collection, featuring 69 historically significant cars, is being sold privately through UK-based performance car specialist Tom Hartley Jr, keeping the final sale prices confidential.
Ecclestone, who began collecting in the 1950s, is offering standout models, including Niki Lauda’s 1978 Brabham BT46 “fan car,” Alberto Ascari’s 1951 Italian Grand Prix-winning Ferrari 375, and an ex-Michael Schumacher F2002. Brabham cars dominate the collection, reflecting Ecclestone’s tenure as team owner from 1971 to 1988, but it also includes Ferraris, Vanwalls, and unique recreations such as a pre-war Auto Union.
“I’ve loved collecting these cars for over 50 years, but the time has come to ensure they go to good homes,” Ecclestone said. “I don’t want to leave this responsibility to my wife if I’m no longer around.”
The cars carry rich histories, including Ferrari’s first monocoque chassis and rare one-offs like the British Racing Green Thinwall Special. Notably, this isn’t Ecclestone’s first sale—he auctioned 50 cars in 2007, including a 1928 Mercedes SSK and a 1939 Lancia linked to Mussolini.
Renowned for transforming F1 into a global powerhouse, Ecclestone stepped back after Liberty Media’s 2017 takeover. The sale marks a poignant chapter for the motorsport icon as he secures the legacy of his extraordinary collection.
*With information from motorsport.com
