Jochen Mass, former German F1 driver, dies at 78

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Ahead of Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix, the Formula 1 paddock was hit with the sad news of the passing at 78 of one-time Grand Prix winner, Jochen Maas.

The veteran German driver suffered a “medical emergency” a little over the month ago, according to his family, but remained in stable condition.

It was revealed on Sunday by the Mass family that he had suffered a stroke, complications of which led to his untimely passing.

Passion and Bravery

Born on September 30, 1946, in Dorfen, Bavaria, Jochen Mass’ journey in motorsport was one of passion and bravery.

Starting in F1 with Surtees in 1973, he raced for McLaren, ATS, Arrows, and March, leaving a mark over 105 starts. His 1975 Spanish Grand Prix win was bittersweet, overshadowed by tragedy when Rolf Stommelen’s crash claimed four lives – a day that deeply touched Jochen’s tender heart.

With eight podiums and 71 points, his best F1 season was 1977, when he finished sixth in the Drivers’ Championship, driving for McLaren.

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Yet, the sport’s dangers weighed heavily; the 1982 crash that killed Gilles Villeneuve and a fiery accident in France that year led him to retire from F1, prioritizing his family’s peace.

However, Mass’ spirit soared in endurance racing, winning many races with Posche alongside Jacky Ickx and triumphing in the 1989 24 Hours of Le Mans with Sauber-Mercedes alongside Manuel Reuter and Stanley Dickens.

He had also triumphed in the 1972 European Touring Car Championship and the 1972 24 Hours of Spa with fellow German ace Hans-Joachim Stuck.

A Free Spirit

A sailor at heart, Jochen’s love for the sea echoed his free spirit. He lived vibrantly in Monaco during his F1 days, later finding solace in Southern France with his beloved wife Bettina and their two daughters.

He also leaves behind two sons from his first marriage to Esti. As a Mercedes ambassador, Jochen often shared his warmth at events like Goodwood until his health declined.

Jochen raced with a heart full of love and humility, leaving an indelible mark on motorsport. His legacy endures in the memories of fans and the sport he adored.

At F1i, we extend our deepest condolences to Bettina, his children, and their loved ones.

The Mass family released the following heartfelt statement:

“Today we mourn the loss of a husband, father, grandfather and a racing legend.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Jochen Mass has died today due to complications following a stroke he suffered in February, earlier this year.

“Thank you to everyone for the incredible support we have received. Every single message of positivity was relayed to him, giving him peace and comfort in his last days.

“Beyond mourning his death, we also celebrate his incredible life. A life that he loved sharing will all of you. A life that he lived to the absolute fullest.

“He is racing with all his friends again. With love and gratitude,”

The Mass family

Rest in peace Jochen Mass, 1946 - 2025

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.