Bid on a Piece of Gaming History: The 2017 Ford GT for Charity

A unique opportunity has emerged for car enthusiasts and gaming fans alike: a 2017 Ford GT, intricately tied to the popular Forza Motorsport series, is set to be auctioned to benefit the UK video game charity, SpecialEffect. This isn’t just any car; it’s a piece of automotive and gaming history that reflects the crossover between these two vibrant communities.

The Car with a Legacy

This stunning Ford GT was owned by Alan Hartman, the former head of Xbox Game Studios and the driving force behind the Forza Motorsport franchise at Turn 10 Studios. Notably, the car was prominently featured on the front cover of Forza Motorsport 6. Originally retailing at around $450,000, it has become a collectible that fetches far more at auctions. Previous sales of similar models have demonstrated this trend, with three separate 2017 Ford GTs auctioned for $1.5 million, $1.2 million, and $923,500 in Arizona in 2020.

Hartman’s generous donation of this vehicle to SpecialEffect highlights the charity’s critical mission. As an honorary vice president of SpecialEffect since 2018, Hartman stated, “I’ve seen first-hand the incredible work that SpecialEffect does, and I’m honoured to be able to contribute in this way.” His commitment reflects a larger industry movement to create more inclusive gaming spaces.

Empowering Disabled Gamers

Funds raised by this auction will directly support SpecialEffect’s team of occupational therapists and gaming specialists in the UK. These professionals utilize assistive technology to design bespoke gaming setups for individuals with disabilities. The charity, founded by former teacher Dr. Mick Donegan in 2007, has become a beacon for accessibility in gaming, focusing primarily on helping physically disabled individuals, especially children, engage with video games.

SpecialEffect collaborates with video game developers and peripheral manufacturers to create modified controllers and eye-tracking sensors, making games accessible to everyone. This innovative work demonstrates how gaming can transcend barriers, fostering inclusivity and joy.

Celebrating Achievements

Last year, SpecialEffect received the prestigious BAFTA Special Award, joining an esteemed list of previous recipients that includes notable figures and organizations like Idris Elba, Aardman Animations, and Dolby Laboratories. This recognition further solidifies their impact within both the gaming and charity fields.

Get Involved

If you’re interested in making a bid, or if you simply want to support a worthy cause, visit Bring a Trailer for more details on the auction. This is not just a chance to own a luxurious supercar but also an opportunity to contribute to a movement that is changing lives through accessible gaming.

As we navigate through 2025, it’s crucial for the gaming community to rally behind initiatives like SpecialEffect. By supporting charities that focus on inclusivity, we contribute to a future where everyone can enjoy the diverse world of gaming, regardless of their physical abilities. Every bid counts; let’s make a difference together!