Yesterday (22 February) marked the 65th birthday of Andreas Nikolaus Niki Lauda. Back in 1976, this remarkable man was defending his Formula One World Title (the epic events of that season can be seen in the film Rush), when any idea of reaching his next birthday seemed remote. He had crashed in the German Grand Prix, and was pulled from his blazing Ferrari by other drivers. Although suffering burns, it was the inhalation of toxic fumes that affected him most, and once transferred to hospital, his condition deteriorated - so much so, that he was given the Last Rites. This rather galvanised him, and against all the odds, was back racing some six weeks later. The title was lost, but he regained it in 1977. Lauda then joined Brabham, but retired in 1981 (so he could concentrate on Lauda Air), but came back (to McLaren) in 1982, winning a third F1 title in 1984. By 1985 he had got tired of going around in circles and retired from driving. He can still be seen in the F1 pit lane - he is currently the non-executive chairman of the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team, and was a prime mover in signing Lewis Hamilton. Sir, we salute you!
Posted on: Sun, 23 Feb 2014 08:22:34 +0000
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