Andreas Nikolaus Lauda

Niki Lauda, born on February 22, 1949, in Vienna, Austria, was a legendary Formula One racing driver and entrepreneur. Lauda achieved global fame for his remarkable comeback after a near-fatal crash in 1976. He secured three Formula One World Championships in 1975, 1977, and 1984, driving for Ferrari and McLaren. Known for his fierce determination and strategic approach, Lauda retired from racing in 1985. Beyond the track, he founded Lauda Air and later became a prominent figure in aviation. His profound impact on motorsports and resilience in overcoming adversity solidify his legacy as one of the sport's enduring icons. Lauda passed away on May 20, 2019, leaving an indelible mark on the racing world. 

Here are some of his career achievements:

• Won his first Grand Prix at the 1974 Spanish Grand Prix, held in Madrid, Spain
• Received the BRDC International Trophy,  the year 1975
• Earned the Formula One World Drivers' Champion title in 1975, 1977 and 1984 respectively
• Awarded the Austrian Sportsman of the Year award in the year 1977
• Honored with the BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year award in the year 1977
• Won the BMW M1 Procar Championship award in the year 1979
• Awarded the International Racing Driver Award by Autosport, in the year 1984
• Won his last Grand Prix at the 1985 Dutch Grand Prix, held in Zandvoort, Netherlands
• ESPN ranked him 22nd on the ESPN Top Drivers of All-Time in 2008