Toto Wolff pays tribute to his friend Niki Lauda

Niki Lauda died yesterday at the age of 70. Triple world champion in 1975, 1977 and 1984, with Ferrari et McLaren, the Austrian played a leading role within the team Mercedes ces dernières années.

Non-executive director of the world champion team, Niki Lauda formed a real tandem with Toto wolff, who paid tribute to his friend.

“First of all, on behalf of the team and everyone at Mercedes, I would like to send our deepest condolences to Birgit, Niki's children, her family and close friends, says Wolff. Niki will always remain one of the greatest legends of our sport. He combined heroism, humanity and honesty inside and outside the cockpit.

His passing leaves a void in the world of Formula 1. We have not only lost a hero who achieved the most remarkable comeback, but also a man who brought valuable clarity and directness to modern Formula 1. He will be greatly missed, as the voice of common sense.

Our Mercedes team also lost a headlight. As a teammate over the past six and a half years, Niki has always been truly honest and completely loyal. It was a privilege to have him on our team and see what it meant to him to be a part of the team's success.

Every time he showed up at Brackley and Brixworth, or gave one of his famous motivational speeches, he brought an energy that no one else could duplicate. Niki, you are simply irreplaceable, there will never be another like you. It was an honor to call you president and I was privileged to call you my friend. »

AUTOhebdo once again sends its sincere condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Niki Lauda.