Jochen Mass, Former Formula One Driver, Dead At 78

We covered before how former Formula One driver Jochen Mass suffered an unspecified “medical emergency” about a month ago. The news just broke that Mass is now dead and that he suffered a stroke in February, the complications of which he finally succumbed to. He was 78 years old.

Ford returned to the Nurburgring with the Mustang GTD to set a new lap time.

Now people are paying tribute to and fondly remembering the German driver from Bavaria. The man came from nothing, starting off in life working on boats, then becoming an apprentice at an Alfa Romeo dealership.

The owner of that dealership noticed Mass had a knack for racing and encouraged him to develop it. Eventually, Mass rose to compete in F1 from 1973 to 1982 on several different teams. While driving for McLaren at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix, Mass achieved his only first place finish.

While Mass was reasonably successful in F1, he achieved even more in European sportscar racing, logging 32 world championships as well as taking first place at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1989.

At one point Sir Stirling Moss expressed incredible praise for Mass, saying he was “a driver with an extraordinary feel for racing cars and great expertise, who is well-versed in the racing history of all eras.”

Even though his racing career ended in 1990, Mass was still heavily involved in motorsports. He was an F1 commentator many enjoyed. Plus, the man helped mentor young drivers on the Sauber and Mercedes-Benz F1 teams, working with Michael Schumacher and Heinz-Harald Frentzen.

“I am deeply saddened to hear the news that my friend Jochen Mass has passed away. He had an incredible life at the heart of our sport and was a wonderful person who embraced life and loved Formula 1. He will be remembered fondly by all those who knew and admired him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very sad time.”

Stefano Domenicalim, F1 President and CEO

“Jochen Mass had a captivating way of recounting stories from his long and distinguished career. As our brand ambassador, he represented us for many years and inspired our brand’s fans with his approachable, friendly manner. He knew how to bring our classic legends to life with his immense knowledge and experience. I always valued the exchange with him. It was always a personal highlight to bring the Mercedes-Benz racing icons onto the road with him.“

Marcus Breitschwerdt, CEO Mercedes-Benz Heritage GmbH

“I am greatly saddened by the passing of my friend Jochen Mass today. He was not just a distinguished driver but a gentlemen and true sportsman, who represented so well the sport we all love.

“The RRDC sends its sincere sympathies to Bettina Mass and their lovely family. And to say we’ve all lost a great friend is a monumental understatement.

“RIP, my friend, and thank you for the memories.”

Bobby Rahal, President, Road Racing Drivers Club

Images via Mercedes-Benz