Formula 1 fans can bid on unique experiences and memorabilia in a charity auction benefiting the Grand Prix Trust. Highlights include a lunch with Ross Brawn after a fishing trip and tours with teams like McLaren and Red Bull. The auction supports F1 staff facing hardships and closes on January 21 at the Autosport Awards.
The Grand Prix Trust, founded by Sir Jackie Stewart in the 1980s, has launched a silent auction to aid Formula 1 personnel dealing with illness, injury, or financial difficulties. Martin Brundle, Sky Sports F1 commentator and charity chairman, announced the event on social media, encouraging fans to "get into the inner sanctum of F1." He added, "Bid for F1 memorabilia including a signed Lando helmet, fish with Ross Brawn, and so much more in this charity auction. Something for everyone."
Key lots feature a fishing excursion on the River Itchen near Winchester, followed by a chef-prepared lunch with Ross Brawn, the former technical director who guided Jenson Button to the 2009 championship with Brawn GP. Brawn, an avid angler, will not join the fishing but will discuss his career insights. Another top item is a private factory tour with Red Bull. Race weekend packages include hospitality with McLaren at the Barcelona, Austria, Baku, or Qatar grands prix, currently leading bids at £14,500, as well as experiences with Cadillac, Williams, and Racing Bulls.
Collectors can vie for items like a signed helmet from McLaren's 2025 champion Lando Norris, Fernando Alonso's Aston Martin race suit, and a cap signed by seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton. Brundle has modernized the trust, boasting a board with Ross Brawn, Sir Patrick Head, Bernie Collins, Andy Stevenson, and Jonathan Wheatley. "I've tried to reinvent, if you like, Grand Prix Trust for the modern day, for a modern industry," Brundle stated.
The auction runs online via the Emma Live platform and concludes on January 21 at the Autosport Awards, with proceeds funding support for F1's behind-the-scenes workers.