Andreas Nikolaus “Niki” Lauda, a legendary figure of perseverance in the face of adversity and three-time Formula One world champion who remained a fixture in the sport even after his racing days were long over, has died, according to his family members. He was 70.
Lauda stared down hell itself in a 1976 German Grand Prix crash that left him badly burned and returned to the race car just six weeks later. He was a common sight on the F1 grid even in recent years, serving as Non-Executive Chairman of Mercedes-Benz’s F1 team, and an inspiration to those who came after him.
Lauda passed away Monday after undergoing kidney dialysis, his family said.
RIP Niki Lauda
RIP Niki Lauda
Niki Lauda, Formula One Legend and Three-Time World Champion, Dead at 70