Jochen Mass, a former Formula 1 race winner and an icon in the world of sports car racing, has passed away at the age of 78. The German died on Sunday due to complications from a stroke he suffered earlier this year. Between 1973 and 1982, he competed in 105 Grand Prix races. He finished on the podium eight times and claimed the top spot once – during the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix.
Jochen Mass’s family announced the sad news through an emotional post on Instagram: “Today we mourn the loss of a husband, father, grandfather, and racing legend,” the message read. “With heavy hearts, we share the news that Jochen Mass has passed away today due to complications from a stroke. We thank everyone for the incredible support we have received. Every positive message was passed on to him, providing him with peace and comfort in his final days. As we mourn his death, we also celebrate his incredible life – a life he loved to share with all of you, and one he lived to the fullest. He is now racing again with all his friends.”
Jochen Mass made his Formula 1 debut in 1973 at the British Grand Prix with the Surtees team. His talent quickly caught the eye, and in 1974 he was picked up by McLaren. A year later, he achieved his first and only victory in the premier class, during the Spanish GP which was cut short due to a severe crash. His most successful season followed in 1977, when he finished sixth in the championship. In the following years, he drove for teams such as ATS, Arrows, and March.
Gilles Villeneuve
In 1982, the German star was involved in the tragic accident that claimed the life of Gilles Villeneuve. On May 8, during the qualifying round for the Belgian Grand Prix at the Zolder circuit, Mass collided with the Ferrari of the Canadian driver. This indirectly led to Villeneuve’s death, although it was a tragic racing incident – Mass was not to blame. However, he was deeply shocked by the accident and later stated that he would carry the incident with him for the rest of his life. He ended his Formula 1 career that same year.
Although Jochen Mass left an indelible impression in Formula 1, he also made a name for himself in other racing classes. In the world of sports car racing, he is considered a true legend. In 1972, he won the 24 Hours of Spa with Ford, and in 1987 he added a victory in the 12 Hours of Sebring, driving for Porsche. The absolute highlight followed in 1989, when Mass, along with Manuel Reuter and Stanley Dickens, won the 24 Hours of Le Mans for Sauber-Mercedes. After his active career, Mass remained closely involved in motorsport, especially as an ambassador and mentor at Mercedes, where he guided young talents and represented the brand worldwide.
