Lauda was a racing legend, willing titles throughout the 70s and 80s for major automakers like Ferrari and McLaren, He's the only person to win championships for these brands so far.
During the 1976 German Grand Prix at the Nurburgring, Lauda was in a crash, resulting in heavy burns and scarring. This led to what would become his signature hats, often sold to sponsors. The accident didn't stop him, however, as he went to win second in the championship that same year.
After retiring twice, Lauda ran his own airline carriers. He was back in the racing scene in the 90s, when Ferrari asked him to manage their F1 team. He would run a few different F1 teams, commentating at the same time.
According to an official statement, Lauda "peacefully passed away with his family."
“His unique achievements as an athlete and entrepreneur are and will remain unforgettable, his tireless zest for action, his straightforwardness and his courage remain. A role model and a benchmark for all of us, he was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather away from the public, and he will be missed.”
Our sympathies go out to everyone affected by this.
