Image via jochenmass/Instagram
Former Mclaren Formula One driver Jochen Mass recently suffered what’s being called a “medical emergency” as the man is apparently stepping out of the public light. It’s a reminder that our heroes don’t always stay young, with death and before that health problems coming for us all eventually.
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According to a report from the Independent, exactly what kind of medical episode Mass suffered from hasn’t been revealed by his family, leaving people to speculate. At 78 years-old, he’s not exactly a spring chicken, so this isn’t exactly a shock, although it is sad to hear.
The family did reveal Mass’ condition is stable, so he’s not on death’s doorstep, at least not yet. But this recent development does mean the man is “stepping back from all public appearances and engagements for the foreseeable future” as stated in a release put out by the family.
Hopefully, the man is able to recover and make more public appearances, delighting his fans.
Mass participated in 105 Grands Prix in F1 stretching from the 1973 to 1982 seasons. It was from the 1974 to 1977 seasons he was on McLaren’s team. He also raced for Surtees, Arrows, ATS, and March.
He famously captured the number one finish in the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix in the city of Montjuic. That was the only time he was able to capture the top slot in a race. In 1977 Mass finished sixth overall, his most impressive championship finish during his F1 career.
More recently, Mass, who is German, has been doing endorsements for Mercedes-Benz. Ironically, he isn’t plugging the road cars for his former team, McLaren, but that’s how business goes sometimes.
We wish Jochen Mass a speedy and full recovery, plus hope his family is comforted in this trying time of their lives.
Image via jochenmass/Instagram
