At the beginning of this year, as Michael Schumacher celebrates his 57th birthday, an announcement brings back memories for Formula 1 fans: the Benetton B192-05, the iconic chassis of his first victory, is up for sale. This is not just a simple racing car; it is a piece of motorsport history, a museum piece that could change hands for over €8.5 million.
A legendary chassis
The Benetton B192-05 is much more than a pile of carbon and metal. Designed by the genius Rory Byrne, this racing car was powered by a V8 Ford-Cosworth, an engine that not only roared on the track but also left an indelible mark in the hearts of fans. It is the last Formula 1 to have triumphed with a manual gearbox. Imagine the scene: pouring rain, drops falling like bullets on the asphalt, and Michael Schumacher, like a maestro, driving his machine amidst giants like Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell.
A memorable first victory
At the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps in August 1992, Schumacher crossed the finish line victorious after 44 laps of a true aquatic battle. A year after his promising debut on the same circuit, this victory marked the beginning of a phenomenal career. To give you an idea, the German driver went on to collect seven world titles, 91 victories, 68 pole positions, and 155 podiums. A record that would make any competitor envious!
A post-victory journey
After its glorious victory, the B192-05 took residence in Enstone, within the historic department of the Benetton team, which has since become property of Renault. Long kept as a treasure, the racing car was later sold to LRS Formula, a company run by Laurent Redon, a recognised expert in running 1990s and 2000s Formula 1 cars. Imagine this car, a silent witness of history, once again racing on circuits under the admiring gaze of enthusiasts!
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A meticulous restoration
In 2024, Laurent Redon certified that the racing car had undergone a complete restoration, engine and gearbox included. This is the first time this historic car will be auctioned, and its price could reach new heights. As Yves Boitel, automotive specialist at Broad Arrow, highlights: “We cannot hide the honour we have to publicly offer, for the very first time, the Benetton B192-05.”
A highly anticipated sale
Boitel goes even further in his enthusiasm: “This is undoubtedly one of the most famous cars in the history of Formula 1, a racing car that not only marked the beginning of one of the greatest F1 careers of all time but also symbolised the end of the glorious era of manual gearboxes at the pinnacle of motorsport.” This sale is part of an online event called Global Icons: Europe, and the excitement surrounding this auction is palpable. Collectors from around the world are eagerly waiting to get their hands on this symbol of a bygone era.
Conclusion: a piece of history not to be missed
As the Benetton B192-05 is set to enter the auction market, it reminds all motorsport enthusiasts that every car has its story. For those dreaming of owning a fragment of Formula 1’s glorious past, this opportunity is golden. Whether you are a seasoned collector or an enlightened enthusiast, do not miss this unique chance to be part of Michael Schumacher’s legacy. This sale could very well be one of the most significant of the decade!
