Minardi boss to auction F1 collection.

Minardi boss Paul Stoddart is to auction off part of his collection of Formula One cars and assorted memorabilia, assembled over the years as his motorsport interest grew towards the acquisition of Minardi in 2001.

Auctioneers Bache Treharne has set the sale for three days in November, and is already beginning to catalogue the estimated 4000 lots to be included.The auction is understood to include approximately half of Stoddart's collection of F1 cars

"The sale will have huge international appeal, and buyers will be able to bid from around the world using our Webcast facilities," auctioneer Chris Hall commented, "We are already receiving interest from all areas - from rival teams and corporate hospitality companies to enthusiasts and collectors.

"The huge selection of Minardi, Arrows, Jordan, Tyrrell, Benetton, British American Racing and Brabham cars, as well as branded memorabilia, means there will be something for all F1 fans."

Having consolidated Minardi's operations in Italy, Stoddart also plans to sell the CNC and conventional machine tools formerly used by his UK R&D team, as well as a huge range of team transportation and pit equipment.

"This group of cars, which has been built up over the last ten years, is possibly one of the most significant modern F1 collections ever offered," the ex-pat Australian pointed out, "It contains most of the assets of the former Tyrrell and Arrows teams, as well as a wealth of other cars, engines and genuine F1 spares and memorabilia from teams such as BAR, Jordan and, of course, Minardi.

"What is of significance is that the sale includes not only approximately 4000 catalogued items, but also that prospective purchasers will have access to hundreds of additional lots of a substantial nature, including plant and equipment, further F1 cars, and other items available for sale prior to the auction.

"I think the sale will have something for everybody, from an F1 car to a tee-shirt, and as I am forever being asked 'where can I purchase genuine Minardi merchandise?'. Well, here's the opportunity."

The auction will take place at Minardi's UK facility in Ledbury, over 18-20 November.