Remembering a Legend – Niki Lauda

We don’t think there is a Motorsport fan across the globe that wasn’t saddened to hear of the passing of F1 legend Niki Lauda recently. As huge Motorsport fans ourselves, we found ourselves reminiscing stories of his epic formula one drives, championships and cars overs the years.

Lauda was one of the only men to have won drivers world championships for both Ferrari and McLaren, completing the feat three times in all. After winning his first in 1975 he was on course to defend the title only to be in a near-fatal crash at the German Grand Prix, which back in those days was held at the infamous Nürburgring. 40 days later he was back behind the wheel battling away with James hunt to only narrowly missed out on winning the title.

Known for championing increased safety within F1 well before and after his accident. His reputation and personality echoed throughout the paddock every race weekend with fierce rivalries and friendships formed to the very end.

Messages of condolence have been pouring in over social media from those closest to Niki, notably Lewis Hamilton tweeted;

“My buddy, I am struggling to believe you are gone. I will miss our conversations, our laughs, the big hugs after winning races together. It’s truly been an honour working alongside you over these past 7 years. I wouldn’t have even been in this team if it wasn’t for you. God rest your soul. Thank you for being a bright light in my life. I’ll always be here for your family should they ever need me. Love you man. Your friend always, Lewis”

With the Monaco Grand Prix upon us this weekend Niki’s passing will surely be marked by the F1 family, to which he will certainly be missed behind the pit wall at Mercedes.