The Ferrari F2001, famously driven by Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher to victory at the 2001 Monaco Grand Prix, has been sold for a staggering £13.43m (15.98m euros) at auction. This iconic car not only secured Schumacher's win in Monaco but also played a pivotal role in his triumph at the Hungarian Grand Prix, helping him clinch the fourth of his seven world titles that year.

Sold by RM Sotheby's just before the qualifying session for this year's Monaco Grand Prix, the F2001 became the most expensive car driven by Schumacher to be auctioned. It also holds the distinction of being the fourth most expensive Formula 1 car ever sold. The record remains with a Mercedes 'streamliner' raced by Sir Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio, which fetched £42.75m in February.

Previously, the highest bid for a Schumacher-driven car was £9.75m for his F2003 back in 2002. As Ferrari aims to replicate Schumacher's 2001 success in Monte Carlo, Charles Leclerc starts second on the grid for Sunday's race, trailing McLaren's Lando Norris.

This sale not only highlights the enduring legacy of Michael Schumacher but also underscores the immense value and historical significance of Formula 1 memorabilia. The F2001 remains a testament to Schumacher's unparalleled skill and dominance in the sport.