Ever dreamed of owning a genuine piece of Formula 1 history? Not just a scale model, but the real deal, a race-worn suit, a signed pair of gloves, or even an entire car sitting in your garage. For a growing number of fans with deep pockets, this dream is becoming a reality, and the prices are hitting stratospheric levels. The recent “Best of British Auction” held by F1 Authentics has just proven how white-hot the market for rare F1 memorabilia is right now, with items fetching hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Held during the 2025 British Grand Prix weekend, the auction was a celebration of the UK’s immense motorsport heritage. But it was the global appeal of the sport, likely turbocharged by the “Drive to Survive” effect, that saw collectors and fans from around the world engage in fierce bidding wars. Here’s some of the jaw-dropping lots that went under the hammer.
The Quarter-Million-Pound Centrepiece: McLaren MP4-26
The undisputed star of the show was a stunning McLaren MP4-26 Show Car, which sold to a private collector for a staggering £244,375.This isn’t just any sculpture; it’s a perfect recreation of the car driven by two British World Champions, Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button, during the 2011 season. That year, the original MP4-26 was a beast on track, racking up 6 wins and 17 podiums. The winning bidder now owns a piece that immortalises some incredible moments in F1 lore. Think of Jenson Button’s legendary comeback from last to first in the rain-soaked Canadian GP, or Lewis Hamilton’s dominant victory over Sebastian Vettel at the Nürburgring. The car’s bold design, with its distinctive U-shaped sidepods and high nose, is faithfully recreated, making it a masterpiece of F1’s V8 era craftsmanship.
If The Suit Fits: Verstappen’s Championship Threads
Proving that modern history is just as valuable, a race suit worn by Max Verstappen during his dominant 2022 championship season was snapped up for £46,288. This is the very suit worn by the Dutchman as he secured a record-breaking fifteen Grand Prix wins and led Oracle Red Bull Racing to their first Constructors’ title since 2013. For a collector, owning the suit from one of the most commanding performances in the sport’s history is an incredible get.
A Touch of Greatness: Schumacher’s ’96 Ferrari Gloves
Items connected to seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher are the holy grail for many collectors, and they are exceptionally hard to find. So, it was no surprise that a pair of signed gloves, used by the legend during his very first season with Scuderia Ferrari in 1996, sparked a bidding frenzy. They ultimately sold for £12,190.These gloves were part of an iconic new beginning, worn as Schumacher took his first three victories for the Prancing Horse, including a legendary win in the wet at the Spanish Grand Prix and a momentous victory at Monza in front of the Tifosi. The winning bidder hasn’t just bought gloves; they’ve invested in a piece of the most iconic driver-constructor partnership in F1 history.
Future Legend: Leclerc’s 2022 Race Boots
From Ferrari’s past to its present, Charles Leclerc’s popularity continues to soar. A pair of his signed, race-used boots from the 2022 season fetched a very respectable £8,912. These boots were on the pedals as Leclerc secured 9 pole positions, took three stunning victories, and ultimately finished second in the driver standings—a pivotal season in his career.
The Power of Authenticity
As these prices show, fans are more eager than ever to “Own the Moment.” For collectors, the assurance of authenticity is paramount, which is why platforms like F1 Authentics, operated by Memento Exclusives, have become the go-to destination. Every item is authentically verified, giving bidders the confidence to invest in these unique pieces of racing history.
If you’re feeling inspired (and your bank account is ready), the next major auction coincides with the United States Grand Prix, launching on October 7th. Get ready to keep a watchful eye.
