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This McLaren F1 GTR chassis, number 025R, is the first ever to receive official certification from McLaren itself.
- McLaren F1 GTR chassis 025R, a “longtail” model, is the first vehicle to receive official McLaren F1 certification.
- Completed on February 9, 1997, it raced in the iconic Gulf colors for the Gulf Team Davidoff.
- after a career in Japan, it underwent an extensive £1.08 million restoration by McLaren Special Operations.
- The car retains its original racing configuration and comes with a thorough spare parts package.
Did you know that the McLaren F1,originally designed as a street-legal supercar,unexpectedly found its true calling on the racetrack?
Gordon Murray conceived the McLaren F1 in the late 1980s as an uncompromising street machine. Its mid-engine layout, carbon monocoque chassis, and unique three-seat configuration were revolutionary. Though, motorsport beckoned, and by 1995, the racing variant, the F1 GTR, debuted at Le Mans. The debut was sensational,with a McLaren clinching overall victory and several other cars placing in the top five.
The Longtail Evolution
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Two years later,new FIA GT regulations eased homologation requirements. McLaren seized this chance,developing the “longtail” version of the F1 GTR. Its bodywork was extended at both the front and rear. These aerodynamic adjustments significantly boosted top speed and improved stability during endurance races. The longtail also saw a weight reduction of about ten percent compared to the 1996 model.
Powering the beast was a BMW V12 engine, derived from the road car but tuned down to nearly 600 horsepower for racing. Like its road-going sibling,the chassis was a carbon fiber reinforced monocoque. Racing-specific Koni dampers, Brembo carbon brakes, and an Xtrac six-speed sequential gearbox transformed the longtail into a formidable racing machine.
A Gulf Icon Takes Shape
Chassis number 025R, the subject of this story, was completed on February 9, 1997, and delivered to GTC Competition. It immediately stood out in the legendary light blue and orange Gulf livery. The driver lineup was stellar, and the car competed in the 1997 FIA GT Championship. It was driven by Ray Bellm, Jean-Denis Délétraz, and André Ahrlé. The team achieved several podium finishes, cementing 025R’s place in racing history.
A Japanese Chapter
Following its European campaign, 025R was sold to a Japanese collector and remained in Japan for over two decades.During this time, it was meticulously maintained but largely unseen by the wider automotive world. Its return to the spotlight came with a comprehensive restoration undertaken by McLaren Special Operations (MSO).
Restoration to Glory
The restoration, costing approximately £1.08 million, was a painstaking process. MSO returned the car to its original 1997 specification, ensuring every detail was authentic. The iconic Gulf-Davidoff livery,complete with start number 39 and all contemporary decals,was reapplied to 025R during its restoration.
The First McLaren F1 Certification
Upon completion in 2018, McLaren officially documented the car within a newly established authentication program. Chassis 025R became the very first vehicle to receive an official certificate, detailing its authenticity, history, and technical condition. Its debut was at the Hampton Court Concours of Elegance, where it captivated attendees as a perfectly preserved time capsule.
Since then, it has been a regular at prestigious automotive events, including the Rétromobile 2022 in Paris. There, McLaren technician Pani Tsouris famously started the V12 engine using an original Compaq laptop from the 1990s-a moment that thrilled the crowd.Today, the vehicle holds British street registration, bearing the license plate GTR 25R, and is widely recognized as one of the most authentic and valuable McLaren F1 examples.
