Historic Moment: The Legendary Ferrari F2001 Sold at Auction
The iconic Ferrari F2001, driven by the seven-time Formula 1 champion Michael Schumacher, was sold at auction during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend for an astounding €15,980,000. Proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Keep Fighting Foundation, a charitable organization that continues Schumacher’s philanthropic work following his skiing accident.
The Significance of Chassis No. 211
This particular Ferrari chassis, numbered 211, is one of the most coveted Grand Prix s ever produced. It holds immense significance as Schumacher clinched his fourth drivers’ championship title with it. Augustin Sabatié-Garat, Director of Sales at RM Sotheby’s, explained ahead of the auction: “Victory on the streets of Monte-Carlo alone would make this a hugely significant , but to do so in the same season that it crossed the line to capture both the Drivers’ and [Teams]’ World Championships – the first back-to-back championship double in history – takes it to a completely different level.
The auction during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend provided visitors to the F1 Paddock Club with a rare opportunity to witness this historical artifact up close.
What Makes the Ferrari F2001 So Special?
Schumacher’s Ferrari F2001 is considered a crown jewel for several reasons. It secured the coveted win at the 2001 Monaco Grand Prix, and it was also instrumental in securing both Schumacher and their drivers’ and constructors’ championship victories.
Interestingly, chassis no. 211 is the only Ferrari in which Schumacher secured both the Monaco Grand Prix and drivers’ championship titles. With Schumacher’s win at the Hungarian Grand Prix, the constructors’ title was claimed, marking the first back-to-back double titles for . It was also the last to win around the streets of Monte Carlo in the same year as clinching the title.
The F2001 is a relic from an era that holds a special place in the hearts of many, with this specific car boasting a 3.0-litre V10 engine capable of producing 825 horsepower. Driven by Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello, it collected 10 wins, 13 pole positions, three fastest laps, and 197 points.