Max Verstappen's ambitious bid to own Michael Schumacher's legendary F2004 Formula 1 car

This audacious move has stirred the world of motorsport as Verstappen formally appeals to Ferrari chairman John Elkann to facilitate the acquisition of this historic machine.

The F2004, a masterpiece of engineering, etched its name in Formula 1 annals by claiming victory in an astounding 15 out of 18 races during the 2004 season. Its unparalleled performance, boasting 12 pole positions and securing Schumacher's seventh and final world title, makes it one of the most revered cars in the sport's history. 

Schumacher's reign over the F1 world began with an extraordinary 12 wins in the first 13 races, cementing the F2004's legacy.

This remarkable car marked the grand finale of the formidable Schumacher-Jean Todt-Ross Brawn triumvirate at Ferrari. Widely recognized as one of the most dominant machines in Formula 1 lore, it stands alongside iconic models such as the McLaren MP4-4 of 1988, the Williams FW14B of 1992, Mercedes' W11 from 2020, and the RB19, the vehicle that clinched Verstappen's third title in Qatar recently.

Verstappen revealed, in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, his aspiration to establish a garage adorned with the championship-winning cars of his illustrious career, including the cherished F2004: "I would like to have in my garage all the Red Bull cars with which I have won an F1 World Championship. 

"In addition to Michael Schumacher's Ferrari F2004, it is an incredible car. But I don't know how I would buy it. 

"This is an appeal to John Elkann! I hope he reads this interview and maybe calls me."

The allure of Schumacher's F2004 is undeniable, and Verstappen's plea reflects his reverence for the sport's rich history. While an auctioned show car version of the F2004 recently changed hands for a significant sum of €660,000, it's worth noting that this wasn't a raced chassis. 

Verstappen's reverence for Formula 1 history extends to his previous acquisitions, including the F2001b and F2003-GA, both of which were auctioned and sold. Notably, the latter set a record as the most expensive F1 car ever sold, fetching an astonishing £11.7 million.

As Verstappen's quest for the iconic F2004 unfolds, the Formula 1 calendar is primed for another thrilling race this weekend in Austin, Texas. The United States Grand Prix, hosted at the illustrious 5.5-kilometre Circuit of the Americas (COTA), is set to captivate motorsport enthusiasts.

The ever-increasing popularity of Formula 1 in the United States is undeniable, with COTA merely one of a number of American venues to host a race this season. Notably, the Miami Grand Prix is making a return, and a brand-new event in Las Vegas is on the horizon, promising an exhilarating season for Formula 1 fans. 

The future of Formula 1 in America has never looked brighter, and Verstappen's pursuit of Schumacher's F2004 only adds to the excitement in this motorsport renaissance.

 

Read More: F1 news: Red Bull's Max Verstappen expects another 'tough race' in Austin (planetsport.com)