A racing suit and helmet worn by legendary F1 driver Niki Lauda were stolen in a break-in at a Southport residence.
On Monday, March 11 at approximately 7.30 p.m., police got a report that a number of sentimental items had been stolen from an address on Stanley Street in Southport. Among the possessions was a racing suit and helmet that the late Niki Lauda once donned.
Police believe that the incident happened thirty minutes before the report was made as the owner claimed that Niki Lauda’s racing suit and helmet had “sentimental value” and were signed by the legendary Austrian racer.
Three-time World Drivers’ Champion Niki Lauda is the only driver in Formula One history to have won a championship for both Ferrari and McLaren, the two most successful constructors in the sport. His championship victories came in 1975, 1977, and 1984. He passed away on May 20, 2019, aged 70.
Police are conducting an investigation and have urged anyone with knowledge regarding the break-in or the items that were stolen to contact them.
“Nobody has the right to force entry into someone’s property,” Inspector Edward Barr said. “Burglary is an invasive crime in which the sanctity and safety of the home is violated which is completely unacceptable.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their home, without the fear of being targeted in this way, and we will do everything we can to identify who was responsible and bring them to justice.
“Among the items stolen during this incident was a motor racing suit and helmet once worn by Niki Lauda. If you come across these items or learn they are being sold somewhere, please let us know.
“If you saw anything suspicious in the area of Stanley Street at around the time of this incident, please get in touch because your information could assist our ongoing enquiries.”
If you have any information on this incident, please DM Merseyside Police on X @MerPolCC or message police on Facebook at ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ quoting reference number 24000248500. You can also pass information via Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org.
