Jochen Mass, Ex-F1 Racer Linked to Historic Moments, Dies at 78

Former Formula One driver Jochen Mass, remembered both for his victory in a race where the only woman to score F1 points competed and for his involvement in a tragic 1982 crash, has died at the age of 78.

Mass passed away due to complications from a stroke he suffered in February, his family confirmed on Instagram on Sunday.

The German driver’s name is forever linked to one of F1’s most historically unique races — the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, where he claimed his only career win with McLaren. The race was cut short after a terrifying crash involving Rolf Stommelen killed four spectators. As a result, only half points were awarded. Italy’s Lella Lombardi, who finished sixth, remains the only woman in F1 history to score championship points.

Years later, Mass’s F1 career was shadowed by tragedy during qualifying for the 1982 Belgian Grand Prix. He was involved in the fatal collision that claimed the life of Canadian driver Gilles Villeneuve. At the time, Villeneuve’s Ferrari clipped Mass’s March while attempting an overtaking move. Villeneuve was launched into the air and killed in the accident.

Despite the tragedy, Villeneuve’s son, 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve, later publicly told Mass: “Our family never blamed you. It was a racing incident.”

Mass retired from Formula One racing shortly after that season, closing a career that saw him start 114 grands prix. Beyond F1, he found success in endurance racing, winning the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1989 with Sauber.

Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali paid tribute on Sunday: “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 One.”

In addition to his racing legacy, Mass remained close to the sport through his work as a broadcaster and regular appearances at historic motorsport events, often driving classic cars and speaking fondly of his racing years.

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Sourced:Times Live

Picture: IMAGO