Jochen Mass

Jochen Mass, an F1 driver who won the 24-hour Le Mans in 1989, died May 4, 2025, of complications from a stroke he suffered in February at the age of 78.

Mass' main claim to fame is winning the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1989, a legendary race that tests the endurance of its participants. He was a 12-time racer in the event, competing on and off from 1972 to 1995 and earning three poles along the way. His accomplishments in racing span well beyond Le Mans, however. As a Formula One racer with more than 100 professional starts, he took home 71 career points and the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix trophy. Mass went on to a successful broadcasting career after his racing days were over, and he coached fellow racer Michael Schumacher, who ended up winning seven Formula 1 World Championships.

"In 1989, we stood together at the top of the motorsport world: winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Sauber-Mercedes – Jochen behind the wheel, me as Team Manager," colleague Max Welti said on Facebook. "His experience, determination and calm strength were instrumental to that legendary victory. But beyond his talent on the track, Jochen stood out for his humility and dry sense of humour. He was a wonderful storyteller - never loud, but always captivating, with a quiet smile and sparkling eyes that often said more than words ever could. His tales from the golden days of racing and unforgettable boat stories - old tar as you always were - were shared with wit and a twinkle that made time stand still. Thank you Jochen - it was an honour and a privilege to be part of that journey with you."

By Eric San Juan

(Image: Horst Ossinger/picture alliance via Getty Images)