By Dean Murray via SWNS
The helmet Niki Lauda was wearing at the time of his infamous crash is up for auction.
The Formula 1 legend was lucky to survive his burning car in the 1976 incident at Germany’s Nurburgring.
The never before auctioned helmet, which still bears fire damage, will be offered for sale by Bonhams|Cars at the Miami Grand Prix weekend on 4 May with an estimate of $50,000 – 60,000. A portion of the sale will go to UNICEF.
Niki Lauda’s son, Lukas Lauda, speaking on behalf of the Lauda family says: “We are delighted that our father’s legacy continues to provide help and assistance to those in most need. The challenges faced by UNICEF in providing humanitarian aid to children worldwide are enormous, if we can make a small contribution towards improving opportunities for others; we are delighted to do so.”
James Garguilo, Bonhams Cars Automobilia Specialist, says: “We are privileged to present this historically significant helmet, as a testament to Niki Lauda’s legacy as a driver and as a champion for driver safety. His unyielding determination and sheer courage altered the trajectory of racing history.”
By 1976, Lauder had become the dominant driver of his generation and was defending World Champion and leading that year’s battle for the title. Despite adverse conditions and safety concerns raised by multiple drivers, the Nürburgring race proceeded.
On lap two of the race, Lauda was involved in an accident in which his car hit the barrier, resulting in his helmet flying off and the engine igniting.
Four of his fellow drivers intervened, pulling Lauda from the wreckage, playing a crucial role in aiding his survival. The subsequent recovery became one of the most iconic moments in Formula 1 history.
Despite severe burns and respiratory damage, Lauda returned to racing at the Italian Grand Prix, a mere 40 days after the accident. The following day he qualified in a remarkable fifth place.
On race day Lauda completed the grueling 52 laps; finishing in an incredible fourth place. While he was ultimately pipped to the world title in 1976, by British driver, James Hunt; the incredible story of the 1976 Championship was fittingly retold in Ron Howard’s 2013 movie, RUSH.
Niki Lauda’s determination and skill led him to win his second world title in 1977 and his third in 1984.
Lauder’s helmet is joined in the sale by other Formula 1 helmets offered from a private collection:
Michael Schumacher, Ferrari, 1997 Italian Grand Prix weekend worn helmet. Estimate: $25,000-30,000.
Nigel Mansell, Ferrari, 1989/1990 season worn helmet. Estimate: $25,000-30,000.
Gilles Villeneuve, Ferrari, 1981/1982 season worn helmet. Estimate: $20,000-25,000.
Alain Prost, Ferrari, 1990 Italian Grand Prix helmet worn to 2nd place. Estimate: $15,000-20,000.
Gerhard Berger, Ferrari, 1995 season worn helmet. Estimate: $5,000-7,000.
Jean Alesi, Ferrari, 1995 season worn helmet. Estimate: $5,000-7,000.
Eddie Irvine, Ferrari, 1998 French Grand Prix worn helmet to 2nd place. Estimate: $5,000-7,000.
