F1 announced a multi-year partnership with Sotheby’s as together they will stage Middle East’s first-ever major car auction during 2019 finale.
RM Sotheby’s is one of the biggest auction company which has sold numerous F1 cars over the years, including that of Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher and more. The company has now officially joined hands with F1 in a multi-year deal from 2019 onward.
The focus for both the brands in 2019 will be staging Middle East’s first-ever major international car auction during the Abu Dhabi GP weekend at Yas Marina Circuit. The auction is to take place on Saturday, November 30 at the circuit.
The focus right now is to bring grand prix single-seater racing cars along with road-going sports cars with historical connection to motorsport for the sale. In addition, a broader collection of ‘hand-picked, blue-chip classic and supercars’ is also being planned.
F1’s Sean Bratches said: “Everyone at F1, 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.” RM Sotheby’s Maarten ten Holder added: “F1 has an unrivalled track record for working with the some of the world’s most innovative and prestigious international companies.
“With its passionate global audience of over 506 million fans, and 21 events across five continents each year, F1 provides a unique platform for RM Sotheby’s and the wider Sotheby’s Group, to excite, entertain and engage with our global customer base of collectors.
“2019 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.” Yas Marina circuit welcomed the idea of the auction at its premises.
The circuit’s CEO, Al Tareq Al Ameri said: “Collector car and memorabilia interest in the Region is growing, so hosting the first auction of this new collaboration at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is perfectly timed.
“And, of course, this represents yet another first as we continue to harness the power of our Grand Prix as a platform for innovations and fan engagement in F1. We look forward to welcoming the collector car world to Yas Marina Circuit on 30th November.”
