Over the last two weeks, OpenAI founder Sam Altman’s name has been all over the news after getting embroiled in Silicon Valley’s biggest soap opera – a messy boardroom drama that sent shockwaves across the tech industry. For unknown reasons, the 38-year-old tech titan was abruptly ousted by the board, only to be reinstated after being briefly hired by Microsoft. While the entire world was busy talking about this saga, we came across an endearing story around Altman, which proves that he’s still a very approachable person with a down-to-earth personality despite being one of the most recognizable people in the tech world. It involves an inquisitive father and son duo, Altman, and his $20 million McLaren F1.
An Instagram user named BluSkyFilms posted a few photos of a jaw-dropping McLaren F1 in red along with claiming in the caption that it was owned by none other than Sam Altman. Describing the chance encounter which apparently happened somewhere in West Marin in California, the person states that he got the chance to chat with a fellow car guy (Altman). He also thanked the OpenAI founder for letting him and his son check out the rare automobile.
Judging by the pictures posted by the Instagram user, Altman gave him enough time to appreciate the beauty of the supercar and click photos from different angles, which is so refreshing considering most well-known personalities avoid such scenarios. The incredibly kind gesture shown by Altman towards a father and his son speaks volumes of why he’s universally loved and commands so much respect.
UPDATE:
**Microsoft Employee** Sam Altman stepping into his $20M Mclaren F1. pic.twitter.com/FyY5tLjF25
— Rally (@OnRallyRd) November 20, 2023
In addition to being one of the most powerful people in the tech industry currently, Sam Altman happens to be a proper car guy. It is believed that he owns not one but two McLaren F1s. His fleet also includes a Lexus LFA along with several Tesla EVs. The 38-year-old is often seen driving his red McLaren on the streets of California and some reports suggest that he even participates in racing events.
Yet, Altman has been quite vocal about efficient and frugal living. Despite having a net worth of around $500 million, Altman wrote in a blog how he prefers to be frugal with his spending and even uses Uber as a more cost-effective option to travel.
Why McLaren F1 is considered to be one of the best automobiles ever made?
It was in 1992 when the world was gifted with one of the finest automotive creations ever made – the McLaren F1. The V12-powered supercar was so ahead of its time that it still doesn’t feel out of place and outdated more than three decades after it debuted. Penned by legendary designer Gordan Murray, the McLaren F1 is powered by a 6.1-liter BMW V12 capable of producing 612hp. There was extensive use of high-tech and expensive materials such as carbon fiber, titanium, Kevlar, magnesium, and gold. The F1 was the first production car to use a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis. But what made it cement its place in the history books was its 240.1 mph top speed, which helped it set the Guinness World Record for the world’s fastest production car.
