F1 Icon Nigel Mansell Auctions Lifetime Collection for Charitable Cause
Formula 1 legend Nigel Mansell, the 1992 World Drivers' Champion, has made a significant gesture by selling his extensive personal collection of racing memorabilia. The auction, which raised an impressive £82,000, was conducted to generate funds for charity following the closure of his museum in Jersey.
Pandemic Closure Leads to Charitable Decision
The 72-year-old former driver was compelled to shut down his car dealership and museum in St Helier, Jersey, due to the severe impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. This closure prompted Mansell to part with memorabilia accumulated over six decades of his racing career. "The best thing I can do is let fans around the world look after my collection for the future," Mansell explained to The Observer, highlighting his desire to preserve these items while supporting a good cause.
Notable Items and Hamilton's Gift
Among the prized items sold at the BUDDS auction was a 1:2 scale Ferrari helmet, personally signed and gifted by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. This unique piece fetched £1,800, according to reports from The Telegraph. Additionally, race-worn gloves from the legendary Michael Schumacher were auctioned for £2,200, demonstrating the high value and historical significance of Mansell's collection.
Personal Challenges and Vaccine Comments
Mansell revealed that shortly after closing his museum, his wife Roseanne required major heart surgery due to complications he attributed to the Covid-19 booster vaccine. "It was a Covid tragedy; the booster, as with many people, caused problems with one of the heart valves," Mansell claimed. He expressed strong views on the matter, stating, "Covid was criminal. Everyone should’ve been left to their own. All this vaccine caused a lot of people to have a lot of problems."
Charitable Proceeds and Youth UK Support
The substantial £82,000 raised from the auction will benefit Youth UK, a charity where Mansell has served as president for an remarkable 27 years. This donation underscores his long-standing commitment to supporting young people through charitable initiatives, turning personal adversity into an opportunity for philanthropic impact.
Mansell's Support for Hamilton's Ferrari Future
Despite Lewis Hamilton finishing sixth in the World Drivers' Championship standings during his debut season at Ferrari, trailing winner Lando Norris by 267 points, Mansell remains optimistic about the British driver's prospects. "I don’t want to put any pressure on him but I think Lewis is going to have a fantastic year," Mansell said. He praised Hamilton's fitness and determination, adding, "He’s a young 41. He’s strong as an ox and super fit. If Ferrari put the car underneath him that he deserves he can do the business still and get that magical eighth world title. I don’t think it’s over yet."
This auction not only highlights Mansell's charitable spirit but also preserves important pieces of Formula 1 history for fans worldwide, while providing crucial support for Youth UK's ongoing programs.
