On May 20, the world of motorsports lost one of the greatest race car drivers of all-time as true legend, Niki Lauda passed away in his sleep.
Former Ferrari driver’s death came nearly 43 years after he cheated the grim reaper at the Nürburgring racetrack. Despite almost losing his life on that day in Germany, Lauda came back and continued his incredible career that started back in the late 1960s.
A three-time world champion, Lauda’s winning exploits on the racetrack may not equal modern-day greats like Lewis Hamilton, but he still ranks as one of the greatest thanks to his return to the sport after nearly losing his life.
The beginning
Born in Austria in 1949, Lauda grew up in a well-to-do family, but he had no interest in getting involved in the family business. The young man’s dream was to drive fast cars.
Although his parents were against their son becoming a race car driver, Lauda’s determination kept him focused on the career. In 1968, relations between Lauda and his parents became strained when they found out he secretly drove in a race. Lauda raced a Mini he acquired from local motorsports hero Fritz Baumgarten and came second during a local race. The local newspaper reported on the event, and Lauda’s parents found out about his desire to drive. Things were never the same between Lauda and his family from that point.
Over the next few years, Lauda progressed through the ranks of race car driving. In 1972, Lauda self-funded his way onto the Formula Two March team by taking out a £30,000 loan. His success was almost immediate, and he was soon elevated to compete in Formula One.
Another bank loan in 1973 allowed Lauda to buy his way into the declining BRM team. His time with BRM was short as Ferrari came calling just a year later and snapped up the young Austrian on the strength of former teammate Clay Regazzoni’s word.
One year after joining Ferrari, Lauda landed his first world championship. A second-place finish resulted in 1976 before a second world title the following year. His 1977 championship was remarkable as it came just over a year after his near catastrophic crash at the Nürburgring.
Nürburgring
Anyone who has seen the video of Lauda’s crash at Nürburgring will have one thought: How did the Austrian walk away from it?
Going into Nürburgring on August 1st, Lauda had dominated Formula One. Despite his excellent form going into the race, Lauda fell behind thanks to a combination of wet weather and the tires he chose. He initially used rain tires while many of his colleagues selected slicks.
After changing tires halfway through the race, Lauda attempted to make up ground on his fellow drivers. Due to his tires being cold, Lauda lost control of his Ferrari. The car collided full force into the side bank of the race track before sending Lauda back across the tarmac. The impact was so strong, Lauda’s helmet was ripped off his head. The car then caught fire due to a fuel leak. Lauda was trapped inside and minutes from burning to death in the cockpit.
Lauda’s life was saved thanks to fellow driver Arturo Merzario, who bravely pulled Lauda from the wreckage.
