By: Zach Catanzareti, Staff Writer
The motorsports world lost a world champion Monday when Niki Lauda passed away at the age of 70. The Austrian giant won three title in the Formula 1 World Championship and had stood as non-executive chairman at Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport since 2012.
Winning his three F1 titles in 1975, ’76 and 1984, Lauda scored 25 race wins along with 54 podiums and 24 pole positions. He rose to prominence following a fiery crash in 1976 that left him with significant facial burns. The wreck, along with his title fight with the late James Hunt, was featured in the 2013 film “Rush”.
“His unique successes as a sportsman and entrepreneur are and remain unforgettable,” said the Lauda family. “His tireless drive, his straightforwardness
Though never attempting an NTT IndyCar Series race throughout his storied career, the series’ drivers expressed sadness for the loss and gratitude for Lauda’s overall impact on racing.
Pole-sitter for Sunday’s Indianapolis 500 Simon Pagenaud, called him his hero.
Mario Andretti, who celebrates the 50th anniversary year of his only Indy 500 win in 1969, drove against Lauda in Formula 1 for more than 10 years.
Mario’s grandson Marco, who runs a bright-red tribute scheme for the ’69 victory this year, also expressed his thoughts for Lauda’s passing.
Robert Wickens returned to Indianapolis for the first time since his paralyzing accident at Pocono last summer and posted his thoughts on Lauda’s death on Instagram.
“It was an [honor] to meet you during my years with Mercedes,” Wickens said. “You are a true hero to me for coming back from your injuries in 1976. I always [respected] you as a person and for your achievements, but after my accident, your comeback sotry was even ore impressive. Rest in peace, Niki.”
Others in the IndyCar paddock both past and precent offered their condolences to the motorsports world and the Lauda family.