Auction house Bonhams has announced that the helmet worn by racing legend Niki Lauda during a historic race will be up for auction at the 2024 Miami Grand Prix. The helmet, which has never been auctioned before, is expected to fetch between $50,000 and $60,000. Lukas Lauda, Niki’s son, expressed his family’s happiness that his father’s legacy can continue to support those in need. The proceeds from the sale will be donated to UNICEF, a charity that provides humanitarian aid to children worldwide.
Bonhams, the renowned auction house, has revealed that they will be offering the opportunity to purchase the iconic helmet worn by Niki Lauda, a three-time Formula 1 World Drivers’ Champion. Lauda, known for his exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to driver and track safety, survived a harrowing accident at the Nürburgring Nordschleife track in Germany in 1976. Despite facing immense challenges, Lauda managed to recover and continue his successful career.
In honor of his remarkable achievements, a portion of the proceeds from the auction will be donated to UNICEF, a charity chosen by the Lauda family. The helmet will be on display at the Miami International Autodrome during the weekend of May 3-5. James Garguilo, a specialist from Bonhams, expressed his privilege in presenting this historically significant item, highlighting Lauda’s unwavering determination and bravery in altering the course of racing history.
The Bonhams report also provides insight into the fateful day that solidified Lauda’s status as a legend. Despite concerns raised by multiple drivers and unfavorable weather conditions, the Nürburgring race went ahead. On the second lap, Lauda was involved in a devastating accident that caused his helmet to come off and his engine to ignite. Fortunately, his fellow drivers came to his rescue and played a crucial role in saving his life.
The subsequent recovery became one of the most memorable moments in the history of Formula 1. Despite sustaining severe burns and damage to his respiratory system, Lauda made a remarkable comeback at the Italian Grand Prix, a mere 40 days after the accident. The following day, he achieved an impressive fifth-place qualification.
On the day of the race, Lauda successfully completed the grueling 52 laps, finishing an incredible fourth. Although he narrowly missed out on winning the 1976 World Championship to British driver James Hunt, the remarkable story of the 1976 Championship was fittingly portrayed in Ron Howard’s 2013 film, RUSH. Niki Lauda’s determination and skill ultimately led him to secure his second world title in 1977, followed by his third in 1984.
Niki’s determination served as an inspiration to millions and solidified his status as one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport. As a result of his accident, significant safety improvements were made to the Nürburgring circuit, and new regulations were implemented. Lauda actively advocated for safer racecar and track designs, pushing for stricter controls on driving conditions and race organizers.
Since 1976, the helmet has been held privately in renowned collections of car and Formula 1 memorabilia. This exceptional opportunity marks the first time it will be available for public auction. The helmet, originally painted in red with ‘Niki Lauda’ lettered in white on both sides, as well as logos for Agv, Goodyear, and Romerquelle, exhibits extensive damage.
Lauda’s iconic helmet originates from a private collection and will be presented for auction by Bonhams, alongside seven other helmets worn by legendary Grand Prix drivers.