Niki Lauda dies, age 70 (Update)

Niki Lauda 1949-2019

UPDATE A fantastic tribute to Niki Lauda, published by Formula 1

05/20/19 Formula One legend Niki Lauda has died at the age of 70 his family have confirmed, while undergoing kidney dialysis.

The three-time world champion took the title for Ferrari in 1975, 1977 and for McLaren 1984.

Lauda was badly burned in 1976 in a Formula One crash and later became an airline entrepreneur.

He also underwent a double lung transplant in August last year.

His family confirmed he had peacefully fallen asleep with his family on Monday, they confirmed on Tuesday night.

In a statement, Lauda’s family confirmed the sad news, writing: “With deep sadness, we announce that our beloved Niki has peacefully passed away with his family on Monday, May 20, 2019.

“His unique achievements as an athlete and entrepreneur are and will remain unforgettable, his tireless zest for action, his straightforwardness and his courage remain.

“A role model and a benchmark for all of us, he was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather away from the public, and he will be missed."