Jochen Mass, former German F1 driver, dies at 78
Ahead of Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix, the Formula 1 paddock was hit with the sad news of the... The post Jochen Mass, former German F1 driver, dies at 78 appeared first on F1i.com.
Ahead of Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix, the Formula 1 paddock was hit with the sad news of the passing at 78 of one-time Grand Prix winner, Jochen Maas.
The veteran German driver suffered a “medical emergency” a little over the month ago, according to his family, but remained in stable condition.
The specific cause of his death on Sunday has not been divulged by his grieving family.
Passion and Bravery
Born on September 30, 1946, in Dorfen, Bavaria, Jochen Mass’ journey in motorsport was one of passion and bravery.
Starting in F1 with Surtees in 1973, he raced for McLaren, ATS, Arrows, and March, leaving a mark over 105 starts. His 1975 Spanish Grand Prix win was bittersweet, overshadowed by tragedy when Rolf Stommelen’s crash claimed four lives – a day that deeply touched Jochen’s tender heart.
With eight podiums and 71 points, his best F1 season was 1977, when he finished sixth in the Drivers’ Championship, driving for McLaren.
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Yet, the sport’s dangers weighed heavily; the 1982 crash that killed Gilles Villeneuve and a fiery accident in France that year led him to retire from F1, prioritizing his family’s peace.
However, Mass’ spirit soared in endurance racing, winning many races with Posche alongside Jacky Ickx and triumphing in the 1989 24 Hours of Le Mans with Sauber-Mercedes alongside Manuel Reuter and Stanley Dickens.
He had also triumphed in the 1972 European Touring Car Championship and the 1972 24 Hours of Spa with fellow German ace Hans-Joachim Stuck.
A Free Spirit
A sailor at heart, Jochen’s love for the sea echoed his free spirit. He lived vibrantly in Monaco during his F1 days, later finding solace in Southern France with his beloved wife Bettina and their two daughters.
He also leaves behind two sons from his first marriage to Esti. As a Mercedes ambassador, Jochen often shared his warmth at events like Goodwood until his health declined.
Jochen raced with a heart full of love and humility, leaving an indelible mark on motorsport. His legacy endures in the memories of fans and the sport he adored.
At F1i, we extend our deepest condolences to Bettina, his children, and their loved ones.
The Mass family released the following heartfelt statement:
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