Niki Lauda

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.

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.

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.

• Skills: Known for his incredible speed, precision, and tactical intelligence. Lauda is celebrated for his bravery, tenacity, and skill in overcoming adversity.

• 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.

• 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.

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

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

• FIA: Information about Niki Lauda's international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fia.com
• Ferrari: Details about Lauda's career at Ferrari. Available at: https://www.ferrari.com
• McLaren: Official site with updates on Lauda's performance and records at McLaren. Available at: https://www.mclaren.com

Articles

• BBC Sport: Niki Lauda: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/48345255
• The Guardian: Niki Lauda's career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/niki-lauda

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