Lewis Hamilton, a figure synonymous with both unparalleled racing success and strong personal convictions, made a significant decision regarding his extravagant car collection, driven by an evolving commitment to environmental activism. This principle led him to part with a unique and immensely valuable vehicle, only for its journey with a new owner to culminate in an unforeseen and dramatic incident.

The vehicle in question was a bespoke Pagani Zonda 760 LH, custom-built for Hamilton in 2014. This formidable supercar, estimated to have cost £1.6 million initially, was a testament to automotive artistry. It featured a ferocious 7.3-litre V12 engine capable of generating 760 horsepower, adorned in a striking purple hue contrasted with exposed carbon fiber, and notably equipped with a rare six-speed manual gearbox—a specific request from Hamilton, making it the first Zonda 760 of its kind.

Despite its dramatic aesthetics and powerful presence, Hamilton reportedly harbored mixed feelings about the Zonda’s handling, once candidly describing it as “terrible.” His perspective on personal emissions also began to shift profoundly, aligning with his public advocacy for environmental causes and prompting a re-evaluation of his lifestyle choices, including his automotive habits.

By 2021, Hamilton’s deepening eco-consciousness spurred a decisive change: he ceased driving his collection of supercars, transitioning exclusively to his electric Mercedes EQC. This pivotal decision paved the way for the Zonda’s departure, a financial masterstroke that saw the unique supercar sell for an astounding £8.5 million, netting Hamilton a remarkable £6.9 million profit.

However, the narrative took an unfortunate turn in 2023. The unnamed new owner of the Pagani Zonda was involved in a severe crash within the Penmaenbach Tunnel in Conwy, Wales, with the supercar colliding forcefully with a wall. The aftermath revealed extensive damage, marking a very expensive and significant car accident.

The crash left the Zonda’s front clamshell crushed, suspension ruined, doors and windshield cracked, and the rear bumper mangled. Remarkably, the driver emerged unscathed, with no other parties involved in the incident. Interestingly, this wasn’t the Zonda’s first mishap; Hamilton himself had a minor collision in 2015, attributing it to illness and sleep deprivation after bumping into three parked cars.

Fortunately, the iconic Pagani has since undergone a meticulous restoration, returning it to its former glory. Sightings in September showed the supercar leaving the Pagani factory following a final test, with its deep purple sheen and exposed carbon center fully restored, and the previously controversial LED DRLs removed. This incident underscores both the exclusivity of such a vehicle and the broader implications of luxury consumption in an environmentally aware world, as Hamilton continues his pursuit of a championship podium in the current Formula 1 season.