Nick Mason's McLaren F1 GTR 10R Auction

Few cars command the same level of reverence as the McLaren F1, but chassis 10R occupies an even rarer place in the model’s history.

Now, after almost three decades with Pink Floyd drummer and renowned collector Nick Mason, the extraordinary machine is set to cross the block at RM Sotheby’s Monterey sale with an estimated value exceeding $35 million (£26 million).

The car’s significance stretches far beyond its famous ownership. McLaren built just two Short-Tail prototype (XP) F1 GTRs, with the sister car famously claiming overall victory at the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Chassis 10R later became the first GTR to receive the revised aerodynamic bodywork, lightweight magnesium gearbox casing and further performance developments before being driven by David Brabham during testing at Circuit de la Sarthe ahead of the 1996 season.

McLaren later converted the car for road use, while its striking factory “Pop Art” livery has made it one of the most recognisable F1s ever produced.

Mason purchased the car directly from McLaren in 1999 and has remained its sole private owner ever since. During that time it has experienced two well-publicised accidents, first in 2009 when it left the road during a media drive and again at the 2017 Goodwood Members’ Meeting while Mason was behind the wheel.

On both occasions the restoration work was entrusted to Lanzante, widely regarded as one of the foremost specialists in preserving McLaren’s racing heritage.

Those repairs have done little to dent its reputation, with RM Sotheby’s believing the car could become the most valuable McLaren F1 ever sold at auction.

Adding further weight to its provenance, legendary F1 designer Gordon Murray described the car as “not just a motor car” but a genuine one-off with exceptional historical importance, adding that its next owner would become the custodian of something truly unique.

Those fortunate enough to have experienced the car on the road have also spoken of its unforgettable character, with its naturally aspirated BMW V12 delivering an intensity few modern hypercars can match.

Should bidding reach the expected figure, chassis 10R would comfortably eclipse previous McLaren F1 auction records while earning a place among the most valuable cars ever sold.

With its racing pedigree, factory-backed road conversion, unmistakable appearance and impeccable ownership history, few collector cars arrive at auction carrying credentials quite as remarkable as this one.