Niki Lauda's Historic Helmet at Miami Auction

On May 4th, 2024, the Miami International Autodrome will be the setting for a very special auction organized by Bonhams|Cars Automobilia Department during the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX. Among the highlighted lots is the helmet worn by Niki Lauda in the 1976 German Grand Prix. This helmet, which has never been auctioned before, has an estimated price of between $50,000 and $60,000.

Niki Lauda is remembered not only for his achievements as a three-time world champion but also for his bravery and determination after surviving a serious accident at the Nürburgring circuit. This incident marked a turning point in his life and in Formula 1 due to his subsequent efforts to improve safety in the sport. Despite the injuries suffered, Lauda returned to racing just six weeks after the accident, finishing fourth in the Italian Grand Prix that year.

The helmet Lauda wore during that fateful accident is a symbol of his legacy in improving safety conditions in racing. Painted in red, with the name 'Niki Lauda' in white and adorned with logos of his sponsors, this helmet shows clear signs of the events of the accident. Its sale is not only an opportunity to own a piece of sports history but also a way to support UNICEF, as a portion of the proceeds will be donated to this charity organization selected by the Lauda family.

Lukas Lauda, son of Niki Lauda, has expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute through this legacy to the humanitarian aid that UNICEF provides to children worldwide. “It is an honor to be able to offer this helmet, which is both a testament to my father's career and his commitment to safety,” commented James Garguilo, Bonhams|Cars specialist.

This auction event will also feature helmets from other legendary drivers such as Michael Schumacher and Alain Prost, but it is Lauda's helmet that captures the essence of his struggle and triumph.