A stunning collection of cars and memorabilia will be up for auction at this year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Formula 1 has signed a deal with world-famous auction house RM Sotheby’s to partner up in putting on sales of collectable cars.
That means Yas Marina Circuit will host what is being called the Middle East’s first ever major international collector car auction, another coup for Abu Dhabi.
It will take place at the circuit on Yas Island on the evening of Saturday November 30, the day before the final race in the F1 calendar.
On sale will be some Grand Prix single seaters and road-going sports cars that have a connection to motorsport, as well as classic and supercars.
Sean Bratches, managing director commercial operations, Formula 1, says: “Everyone at Formula 1, along with our global community of fans love cars, old and new. The chance to work with RM Sotheby’s is a perfect marriage showcasing the beauty of classic cars alongside the most technologically advanced cars on the planet. And while, not all of us can drive away with a priceless piece of automotive art, our collaboration gives all the race-goers the opportunity to see these beautiful cars up close over the race weekend. It is going to be another way to deliver on our promise of making the spectacle more spectacular.”
Maarten ten Holder, head of RM Sotheby’s Europe and chief auctioneer, adds: “Formula 1 has an unrivalled track record for working with the some of the world’s most innovative and prestigious international companies. This year marks our 40th anniversary and, for us, there is no better way to celebrate this landmark year than by sharing our love of cars on the biggest stage possible.”
Al Tareq Al Ameri, CEO of Yas Marina Circuit, says: “Collector car and memorabilia interest in the region is growing, so hosting the collaboration’s first auction at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is perfectly timed. The collaboration represents yet another first as we continue to use our Grand Prix as a platform for innovation and fan engagement in Formula 1.”
Tickets for this year’s event are on sale now, with loads of different options for race fans.
It’s also the first year the F1 weekend will stretch to five days, ending on Monday December 2, the UAE’s National Day.
