Jochen Mass recovering from medical emergency

Mass, 78, competed in 105 Formula 1 Grands Prix between 1973 and 1982, scoring 71 points and claiming eight podiums. He secured his sole victory at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix with McLaren, making him, alongside Wolfgang von Trips, Germany’s most successful F1 driver before the rise of Michael Schumacher.

In a statement shared on social media, Mass' family provided an update on his condition: “The family of Jochen Mass wishes to share that he is currently recovering from a recent medical emergency.

"While Jochen's condition is stable, he will be stepping back from all public appearances and engagements for the foreseeable future as he focuses on his recovery.

“We as a family are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and kindly request privacy during this time. We are wishing Jochen a speedy recovery.”

Mass, who served in the merchant navy before entering Formula 1, achieved his best championship finish in 1977, ending the season sixth overall with McLaren.

Speaking to Süddeutsche Zeitung in a birthday interview, Mass reflected on how he was perceived during his racing career: “I was a dreamer, a romantic. Some people preferred to see me as a ruthless Teuton, but that wasn't me.

"On the other hand, they also knew that the dreamer drove fast and reliably. Otherwise, they wouldn't have hired me again and again—whether at Ford, Porsche, or Mercedes-Benz," he added.

After leaving Formula 1, Mass forged a successful career in sportscar racing, competing in events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Dakar Rally for Porsche and Sauber-Mercedes.

From all at GRANDPRIX247, all the best Jochen get well soon!