McLaren MP4-24 tops #RaceAgainstCOVID auction

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The curtain came down last night on RM Sotheby's special #RaceAgainstCOVID auction held on behalf of the FIA to generate proceeds for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

The exclusive online auction included 95 collectables and outstanding pieces of memorabilia from the world of motorsport, with many drivers and teams donating special items for the good cause.

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Overall, more than 400 bidders from 43 countries took part in the auction.

Topping the sale was a McLaren MP4-24 show car donated by the Woking-based outfit which fetched a healthy £66,000.

But additional highlights from the auction included a sculpture of Ayrton Senna by famed artist Paul Oz which sold for £48,000; Damon Hill's 1995 Williams racing suit and helmet which were awarded for a hefty £39,600; the Race Of Champions Buggy raced by Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel in the 2012 ROC that was snapped up for £36,000, and Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes signed racing suit, gloves, and boots that were acquired for £31,200.

Overall, the FIA online auction raised a total of £845,472 or €944,392 for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.