Schumacher's First F1 Winner, the Benetton B192, Heads to Auction for €8.5M

The Benetton B192 in which Michael Schumacher clinched his maiden Formula 1 victory at the 1992 Belgian Grand Prix is now on the auction block. Chassis number 5, the exact car driven to that historic win, is listed by Broad Arrow Auctions with an estimated value of €8.5 million, offering a rare piece of F1 history to collectors.

Why it matters:

This isn't just a race car; it's the launchpad for a legend. Schumacher's first win in Belgium was the world's first glimpse of the seven-time world champion's immense talent and race-craft. Owning this car is owning a tangible piece of the origin story of a driver who would go on to redefine the sport and set records that stood for decades.

The details:

• The Historic Win: The car secured Schumacher's first of 91 Grand Prix victories at a wet Spa-Francorchamps, a track that would become one of his most successful hunting grounds.
• Dream Team Pedigree: The B192 was designed by the legendary Rory Byrne and run under the technical leadership of Ross Brawn, forming the core of the group that would later dominate F1 with Ferrari.
• Technical Specs: It features the iconic green and yellow Mild Seven livery and is powered by a Ford 3.5-liter V8 engine, producing approximately 670 bhp.
• David vs. Goliath: The car was a "relatively basic but highly effective" challenger to the all-conquering Williams FW14B, which won nine races that year. This highlights the significance of Schumacher's achievement in a non-dominant package.

Looking Ahead:

The auction represents a unique opportunity for high-end collectors and motorsport historians to acquire a vehicle with immense historical significance. With the legacy of both Schumacher and the Benetton team continuing to grow, the final sale price could potentially exceed the initial €8.5 million estimate, cementing the B192's status as a true motorsport icon.