Lewis Hamilton, a celebrated figure in Formula 1, is renowned not only for his on-track prowess but also for his unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability, a principle that surprisingly led him to part ways with a prized, custom-built supercar.

The vehicle in question was a unique Pagani Zonda 760 LH, specifically commissioned by Hamilton in 2014. This automotive marvel, a true testament to bespoke engineering, housed a formidable 7.3-litre V12 engine capable of generating an impressive 760 horsepower, distinguishing it within his extensive luxury car collection.

Visually striking with its distinctive purple livery and intricate carbon fibre accents, the Zonda also boasted a rare six-speed manual transmission, a personal specification requested by the racing icon, making it an unprecedented variant among Zonda 760 models. Originally acquired for approximately £1.6 million, it was considered a jewel in his impressive £12.5 million car portfolio.

Despite its extraordinary design and potent performance, Hamilton’s personal views on the vehicle were not entirely favorable; he notably described its handling as “terrible,” indicating a pragmatic assessment rather than pure adoration. His evolving environmental consciousness, driven by a desire to reduce his carbon footprint, soon became a significant factor in his decision-making regarding his vehicle fleet.

By 2021, deeply committed to his green philosophy and having transitioned to driving electric vehicles like his Mercedes EQC, Hamilton decided the gas-guzzling Zonda no longer aligned with his principles. This pivotal decision led to its sale, which proved exceptionally lucrative for the Formula 1 driver, fetching a remarkable £8.5 million and resulting in a substantial £6.9 million profit.

However, the story of the custom Pagani took an unfortunate turn in 2023 when its new, unidentified owner was involved in a severe crash within the Penmaenbach Tunnel in Conwy, Wales. This incident dramatically underscored the fragility of such high-performance machines.

Photographs circulated online revealed the extensive damage sustained by the rare supercar, including a shattered front clamshell, compromised suspension, and significant impacts to the doors, windshield, and rear bumper, necessitating a costly repair. Fortunately, the driver emerged from the wreckage unharmed, with no other vehicles implicated in the accident.

Interestingly, this was not the Zonda’s first encounter with peril; Hamilton himself had a minor accident in 2015, attributing it to fever and sleep deprivation after inadvertently striking three parked cars. This history adds another layer to the narrative of a unique vehicle and its journey through ownership.