Jochen Mass Passes Away at 78: A Tribute to a Motorsport Legend
Jochen Mass, renowned for his versatile contributions across various motorsport disciplines, has passed away at the age of 78. He succumbed to complications following a stroke suffered in February.
Mass’s career spanned several decades and included a notable tenure in Formula One, where he competed from 1973 to 1982, achieving eight podiums and a singular victory at the shortened 1975 Spanish Grand Prix. Over his 105 Grand Prix starts with five different teams, he demonstrated exceptional talent, culminating in a runner-up finish in the 1973 Formula 2 Championship.
In the realm of touring cars, Mass secured his legacy with a historic win at the 1972 Spa 24 Hours, where he, alongside Hans Stuck, set an exceptional distance record of 4,498 km—a benchmark that remains significant in the event’s history.
However, Mass’s most remarkable achievements came in sports car racing. From 1975 to 1990, he amassed 25 wins in the World Sportscar Championship, significantly contributing to Porsche and Sauber Mercedes’ success in the Teams’ and Manufacturers’ Championships. He earned runner-up honors in the Drivers’ Championship twice (1984 and 1989) and consistently placed in the top three throughout the late 1980s.
Mass’s crowning achievement came in 1989 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where he triumphed in the Sauber Mercedes C9, solidifying his status as a formidable competitor. Additionally, he secured victories at pivotal events such as the Sebring 12 Hours in 1987 and won the DRM title in 1985.
His affiliation with Mercedes-Benz continued beyond his racing years, as he became an ambassador, sharing the brand’s illustrious history through exhibitions, alongside his work as a commentator for motorsport broadcasts worldwide.
The motorsport community mourns the loss of Jochen Mass, whose influence and achievements will leave a lasting legacy. Our condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.
