In a rare opportunity that blends automotive history with motorsport glory, a piece of Formula 1 royalty will go under the hammer this November at Sotheby’s Marquee sale of Modern and Contemporary Art. The crown jewel in question? A 2006 Ferrari 248 F1, the machine that propelled Michael Schumacher to five victories and eight podium finishes, forever etching his name in F1 history.
This particular Ferrari 248 F1, chassis 254, isn’t just any race car—it is a legend in its own right. With wins at the San Marino, European, US, French, and German Grands Prix, and podium finishes in Spain, Great Britain, and Canada, this car represents one of the most successful in Schumacher’s illustrious tenure at Ferrari. More than a decade after its dominance on the track, it remains a prized symbol of the seven-time world champion’s legacy.
Offered through Sotheby’s Sealed, this legendary car’s journey from Ferrari to its current owner is as impressive as its track record. Acquired directly from Ferrari in 2007, the car has been Ferrari Classiche Certified and meticulously maintained. It’s a rare chance for collectors and F1 enthusiasts alike to own a car that not only defined Schumacher’s final season with Ferrari but also cemented his status as one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport.
The Ultimate Legacy Car
Shelby Myers, Head of Private Sales at RM Sotheby’s, captured the significance of this sale: “Michael Schumacher’s name is synonymous with greatness, but there are only a few cars that truly define his legacy. Chassis 254 is one of them. Its racing record alone puts it at the very top of the pyramid, and nothing carrying the Schumacher name has come to public sale with more wins or podium finishes.”
Indeed, chassis 254 is in rarified air. Only one other Schumacher-era Ferrari boasts more wins. This car is not just a relic of a bygone F1 era but the embodiment of Schumacher’s skill, grit, and relentless pursuit of victory. It was in this very car that Schumacher surpassed Ayrton Senna’s pole position record and achieved his final Grand Prix win on German soil, marking the end of an extraordinary era for both Ferrari and Formula 1.
Ferrari’s First Modern V8 F1 Car
The 248 F1 marked a pivotal shift for Ferrari, as it was the first V8-powered Formula 1 car the Scuderia had raced since 1964. The 2006 season saw a seismic shift across the grid with new V8 engine regulations. Schumacher’s mastery behind the wheel of this revolutionary car led to five triumphant wins and solidified its place as one of Ferrari’s most important race machines.
As Schumacher’s last Ferrari before his first retirement, the 248 F1 holds an unparalleled position in the annals of F1 history. Its performance, both on the track and in collectors’ eyes, is matched only by the memories it evokes—of a driver who pushed the limits and redefined what it meant to be a champion.
A Collector’s Dream
Beyond its undeniable performance, this Ferrari 248 F1 stands out for its immaculate provenance. After leaving the track following testing by future Ferrari World Champion Kimi Räikkönen, the car was carefully preserved in one of the most exclusive automotive collections. Its Ferrari Classiche Red Book Certification ensures that its legacy remains intact, accompanied by a treasure trove of records and historical documentation.
As the final Ferrari Formula 1 car Schumacher drove to victory, this 248 F1 offers more than just its place in the record books. It represents a monumental era for Ferrari and Formula 1, carrying the pride and passion of tifosi worldwide. This is not just a car; it is a symbol of triumph, history, and an everlasting legacy.
With the Ferrari 248 F1 set to go up for auction, the world will witness the sale of one of the most significant pieces of motorsport history ever to come to market. Schumacher’s Ferrari 248 F1 will undoubtedly attract global attention, not just for its historical importance but for the memories it evokes of a true racing legend.
