In January 2022, former Formula 1 champion and current F1 Sky Sports analyst Jenson Button put his customized 1970 Ford Bronco up for sale through an auction company. The listing, which is still accessible at the time of writing, stated that Button had owned the vehicle for the past four years and personally requested modifications to enhance its performance and appearance.
These modifications included a raised suspension and new 17-inch wheels equipped with BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, upgraded shock absorbers, Fitech fuel injection, a brand-new Optima battery with a cut-off switch, a new steering column and steering wheel, an upgraded audio system, a fresh paint job with personalized details, and a cream leather interior that was period-correct.
A vintage Bronco in good condition is always an attractive choice, but this particular one had an added allure due to its connection to a renowned F1 legend and avid car collector like Button. The final bid reached $166,000, with Leo Eccles, the director of a British company, emerging as the winning bidder.
However, more than two years later, the Bronco remains in storage in the United States as Eccles refuses to take delivery. His refusal stems from a lawsuit he filed against Button, accusing him of fraud. Eccles claims that Button intentionally misrepresented the ownership of the vehicle, asserting that it was never Button’s and was not registered under his name. Instead, Button’s then-girlfriend was the rightful owner, with both of them publicly acknowledging this fact. Although the girlfriend deleted her posts, one of Button’s posts confirming the arrangement is still accessible. Furthermore, Button discussed his vehicle collection, including the Bronco, in a podcast.
According to legal documents filed in Los Angeles, Eccles contacted Button upon discovering the truth and demanded a refund. Eccles argues that he overpaid for the Bronco under the false belief that it belonged to Button. He contends that Button’s occasional use of the vehicle does not constitute ownership and therefore seeks a full refund. Additionally, Eccles claims that the Bronco is in worse condition than advertised, providing another reason for his refusal to accept it.
Button’s lawyer, however, accuses Eccles of experiencing buyer’s remorse and making baseless allegations. The lawyer asserts that Button fulfilled all repair requests made by Eccles and covered the expenses out of his own pocket, including storage costs as requested by Eccles. On the other hand, Eccles has been declining delivery because he is unable to register the car in South Africa, where he currently resides.
Eccles has levied accusations of fraud, intentional misrepresentation, breach of contract, and violation of business code against Button and his now-wife. He seeks a refund of his payment and may also pursue damages in the matter.
According to the Source autoevolution.com