The drivers pay tribute to Mansour Ojjeh

It is a piece of news that saddened the entire paddock. Iconic figure of Formula 1, Mansour Ojjeh passed away this Sunday, in Geneva at the age of 68. The Franco-Saudi was very involved in the world of F1. The TAG company (founded by his father, specialized in aviation and mechanical sports) had sponsored Williams in 1979, before becoming a shareholder in McLaren in 1984.

The businessman had snatched the titles with the British team in the 80s and 90s. In order to thank him and salute his work, the McLaren (former) drivers wanted to pay tribute to him.

Former McLaren driver Jenson Button posted a photo of himself with the businessman on his Instagram account with a message. Farewell Mansour, you will be missed by many, including me. Mansour did so much for the sport we love, but more importantly, he was an extraordinary man. The love surrounding Mansour from his family and friends showed what an extraordinary man he was. All my love goes to the Ojjeh family. RIP Mansour.

World Champion with McLaren in 2008, Lewis Hamilton also paid tribute to the Franco-Saudi on Instagram. « My heart is heavy after the loss of an intimate friend. Mansour Ojjeh was like a big brother to me. He had the biggest heart and always the biggest smile. He fought for many years with such courage and the heart of a lion. I am so grateful to have known such a man. His jokes will be missed – he was the best at telling them – and his big hugs. Rest in peace my brother, I will always love you. »

Daniel Ricciardo also paid tribute to Mansour on his Instagram account with a photo where he poses with the businessman and other friends. The Australian wrote a message in the description of his post. We lost a great man this weekend. Many of us knew Mansour and shared great moments with him. I can’t speak highly enough of him. You will be missed, buddy.

Lando Norris, on the other hand, took advantage of his 5th place in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix to say a word for the former shareholder of McLaren. “It’s just a 5th place, but it’s for Mansour. Thank you for everything you’ve done. Rest in peace.”