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Niki Lauda

Austrian Formula One driver

Team

Retired

DOB

February 22, 1949

Height / Weight

175 cm (5 ft 9 in) / 70 kg (154 lbs)

Achievements

3x World Champion

Summary

Niki Lauda was an Austrian professional Formula 1 driver, born on February 22, 1949, in Vienna, Austria. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport. Lauda began his professional career with March Engineering before moving to BRM in 1973, where he made his mark and caught the attention of Ferrari.

Lauda is known for his incredible speed, skill, and precision. He has won numerous individual awards, including three World Championships, and holds multiple records, such as the then fastest lap in Formula 1 history.

Off the track, Lauda is also recognized for his business acumen, running his airline companies, and inspiring millions worldwide.

Career

March Engineering

  • Early Career: Lauda was born and raised in Vienna and made his debut in Formula 2 for March Engineering in 1971.

BRM

  • Early Success: Lauda signed with BRM in 1973. His consistent performances attracted the attention of Ferrari, leading to a contract with the Italian team.

Ferrari

  • World Champion: In 1975, Lauda won his first World Championship with Ferrari. A near-fatal accident in 1976 at the German Grand Prix almost ended his career, but he made a miraculous recovery and returned to racing just six weeks later. He won his second World Championship in 1977.

McLaren

  • New Challenges: Lauda joined McLaren in 1982, seeking new challenges. During his time at McLaren, he won his third World Championship in 1984.
International Career

Formula 1 Racing

  • Debut: Made his debut in Formula 1 in 1971.

Achievements:

  • Formula 1 World Championship: Winner in 1975, 1977, and 1984.
  • Lauda is one of the few drivers to have won the World Championship for both Ferrari and McLaren.
Style of Play
  • Skills: Known for his incredible speed, precision, and tactical intelligence. Lauda is celebrated for his bravery, tenacity, and skill in overcoming adversity.
Personal Life
  • Family: Lauda was married twice and had five children. His second wife was Birgit Wetzinger, a former flight attendant for his airline, Lauda Air.
  • Business: In addition to his racing career, Lauda founded and ran three airlines: Lauda Air, Niki, and LaudaMotion.
Legacy
  • Niki Lauda is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his courage, determination, and impact on Formula 1. His story of recovery and triumph after his 1976 accident is one of the most inspiring in the sport, influencing millions of fans around the world.
Awards and Recognition

Most Fastest Laps in a Single Season:

  • 9 fastest laps in 1975

Most Pole Positions:

  • 24 pole positions

Most World Championships:

  • Three-time World Champion in 1975, 1977, and 1984
References

Books

  • Hamilton, M. (2019) Niki Lauda: His Remarkable Career and Life. London: Icon Books.
  • Smith, G. (2018) Niki Lauda: The Biography. New York: Orion Publishing Group.

Websites

Articles

Interviews and Documentaries

  • Lauda: The Untold Story (2014): Directed by Hannes M. Schalle. This documentary provides a detailed look at Lauda's life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
  • ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Niki Lauda, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com
Full name
Andreas Nikolaus Lauda
Born
1949-02-22
Place of birth
Vienna, Austria
Position(s)
Driver, Entrepreneur
Current team
Retired
Senior career
1971 - 1972 March
1973 - 1975 BRM
1974 - 1977 Ferrari
1978 - 1979 Brabham
1982 - 1985 McLaren
Social Media
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