Rare 1992 Fondmetal GR02 F1 Car With Engine Hits Auction: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Collectors’ Opportunity

F1 collectors and motorsport enthusiasts now have a rare chance to bid on a genuine, race-used Formula 1 car—complete with an original engine. The legendary 1992 Fondmetal GR02 (Chassis 03), one of the most elusive survivors from one of the sport’s most iconic eras, is officially up for auction through F1 Authentics until 9 December 2025.

A Remarkably Rare F1 Machine From a Bygone Era

Only three GR02 chassis were ever built, making Chassis 03 an extraordinarily scarce piece of F1® history. This exact car competed in three Grands Prix in 1992, driven by Belgian driver Eric van de Poele, who qualified for the Hungarian, Belgian, and Italian Grands Prix. Its best finish came at Spa-Francorchamps, where van de Poele secured tenth place.

The GR02 also holds a special place in motorsport history as the last Fondmetal car ever to race in Formula 1. A fourth chassis was planned but never completed, cementing Chassis 03 as the team’s final F1 challenger.

Restored With a Period-Correct Cosworth Engine

The historic chassis has undergone a meticulous restoration under the guidance of its original chief designer, Sergio Rinland, and supervised by renowned restoration specialists Mec Auto. The team sourced a period-correct Cosworth HB engine, rebuilt the gearbox, and equipped a modern MOTEC ECU and dash—the only component not true to the 1992 specification—to ensure reliable running. Every other element remains faithful to its original race configuration.

Voices Behind the Machine: Exclusive Insights

In an exclusive conversation with F1 Authentics, former F1 driver Eric van de Poele expressed deep admiration for the preservation of his race car:

“The car is exactly like it was… everything is perfect. When I drove it again in 2021 at Spa, it was incredibly fantastic to drive. The story of Fondmetal in Formula One is something very special.”

Designer Sergio Rinland also reflected on the GR02 as his most cherished creation:

“When people ask which old car I’m most proud of, I always say the Fondmetal. We had to start from scratch… it represents my life, my pride and joy. It had innovations that took years for other Formula One cars to adopt, like the side channels.”

Bidding Now Live on F1 Authentics

The Fondmetal GR02 Chassis 03 is now part of the End of Season Auction on F1 Authentics. As one of the few fully complete and engine-equipped F1® cars from the early 1990s available to the public, it stands as an extraordinary acquisition opportunity for serious collectors.

Fans and bidders can participate at f1authentics.com until 9 December 2025.