The motorsport world mourns the loss of Jochen Mass, the former Formula 1 driver, who passed away at the age of 78. The news was confirmed by his family on Sunday via Instagram.
Mass, known for his outstanding career in motorsports, left an indelible mark on the history of Formula 1.
A Legacy on the Track
One of the most significant moments in Mass’s career was his victory at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix, competing for McLaren. The race, held at the Montjuic circuit in Barcelona, was prematurely interrupted, with half points being awarded due to an accident involving Rolf Stommelen, resulting in the tragic death of four spectators.
In addition, Mass will be remembered for being part of the Grand Prix where the only female driver in F1 history to score points, Lella Lombardi, finished in sixth position.
In 1982, a tragic accident during qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix in Zolder marked another crucial moment in his career. A collision with Mass’s March resulted in the fatal accident of Canadian driver Gilles Villeneuve.
Our family never blamed you, it was a racing incident.
Jacques Villeneuve
After this event, Mass retired from Formula 1 that same year.
Outside of Formula 1, Mass also demonstrated his talent by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1989 with Sauber.
Jochen Mass’s departure leaves a void in the world of motorsport, but his legacy will endure in the memory of fans and in the history of Formula 1.
