German police observe down stolen Ferrari 288 GTO as soon as owned by F1 driver Eddie Irvine

German authorities efficiently situated a stolen Ferrari 288 GTO after a person posed because the automotive’s purchaser then stole it.

On Monday, the suspected thief confirmed up posing as a possible purchaser for the automotive within the German metropolis of Duesseldorf. After the vendor agreed to let him drive the automotive, the 2 exited the automotive to swap seats. Nevertheless, when the thief bought within the driver’s seat, he sped off and left the vendor on the aspect of the street.

1985 Ferrari 288 GTO – Picture by way of Mecum Auctions

Not solely is the Ferrari 288 GTO a prized automotive from the Italian marque, however this specific automotive is much more particular, DW reported Thursday. Eddie Irvine, a former Method One driver, had owned the automotive. Irvine grew to become most notable in his 1999 F1 season when he challenged McLaren driver Mika Häkkinen for the World Championship and completed second total, simply two factors behind Häkkinen. Irvine scored 26 podium finishes and 4 race wini between 1993 and 2002.

With the Irvine connection, the 288 GTO is estimated to be price $2.2 million.

1985 Ferrari 288 GTO – Picture by way of Mecum Auctions

Though police discovered the automotive, the suspect is reportedly nonetheless on the run. There’s additionally no phrase on what situation the automotive was in when it was found, however, hopefully, it is not broken or abused. In response to the report, the suspect has vanished with out a hint, regardless of a photograph of the person that has been circulated.

We’re certain the rightful proprietor of the 288 GTO is solely glad the automotive is coming again residence.