Former German F1 driver Jochen Mass has died

The world of motorsport mourns the loss of Jochen Mass, an iconic figure on the circuits, who passed away this Sunday, May 4, 2025, in Cannes, at the age of 78, following a stroke suffered in February.

« Today, we mourn the loss of a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a legend of motorsport »,” said Jochen Mass’s family in a message posted on his Instagram account. « It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jochen Mass’s passing today due to complications from a stroke he suffered in February of this year. Thank you all for the incredible support we have received. Every positive message was conveyed to him, bringing him peace and comfort in his final days. »

Beyond the mourning, we also celebrate his extraordinary life. A life he loved to share with you all. A life he lived to the fullest. He runs again with all his friends, concluded the family of Jochen Mass.

An accident that marked the history of F1

Born on September 30, 1946, in Dorfen, Bavaria, Jochen Mass began his career as a mechanic before making his mark in hillclimb and touring car races in the late 1960s. He entered Formula 1 in 1973 with the Surtees team, then joined McLaren in 1974. It was with this team that he won his only Grand Prix, in Spain in 1975, a victory marked by a tragic accident that claimed the lives of several spectators.

On April 27, 1975, during the 26th lap, Rolf Stommelen’s Hill-Ford suffered a rear wing failure. The car took off, crossed the barriers, and violently struck the crowd. The toll was heavy: four dead on the spot — an Italian photographer, a Spanish firefighter, and two spectators — and about ten injured, one of whom later succumbed to their injuries. Stommelen, for his part, escaped with multiple fractures.

Overall, Jochen Mass competed in 105 Formula 1 Grand Prix between 1973 and 1982, achieving eight podiums and accumulating 71 championship points. His endurance career is equally remarkable, with a victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1989 driving a Sauber-Mercedes, alongside Manuel Reuter and Stanley Dickens.

After his retirement from sports, Mass remains active in the racing world as a consultant and mentor. He notably plays a key role in the early career of Michael Schumacher, guiding him through the Mercedes program and encouraging him to join Ferrari in 1996.

Jochen Mass leaves behind his wife Bettina, two daughters, and two sons. His passing leaves an immense void in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts, who will remember him as a talented driver, a dedicated mentor, and a deeply humane man.