The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum has partnered with RM Sotheby's to auction 11 of its most valuable cars, aiming to raise over $100 million. The auction represents a significant move for the museum, which operates independently from Roger Penske's ownership of IMS.

The vehicles being sold primarily consist of donated cars and rare acquisitions from non-IndyCar series, with estimated auction values potentially exceeding $106 million. This initiative comes as the museum, which closed in November 2023 for renovations, seeks to raise $89 million for property improvements.

Museum spokesperson Kara Kovert Pray explained that nine vehicles not aligned with the museum's mission will be sold, along with two additional vehicles previously approved for sale in 2021. While this move may reduce the museum's diversity of exhibits beyond Indianapolis 500 cars, the proceeds will establish an endowment to ensure long-term sustainability.

The funds will be used to:

• Acquire new cars and artifacts
• Restore and maintain existing collections
• Establish the museum as a cultural destination
• Create a sustainable financial future

The auction schedule includes:

• February 1: 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 R (Germany)
• February 4-5: 1964 Ferrari 250 LM (Paris)
• February 27-28: Remaining vehicles (Miami)

The museum, which first opened in 1956, will reopen in April following its renovation. The auction proceeds are separate from the capital campaign funding the renovation project.

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