During Formula 1 race weekends, Toto Wolff and Helmut Marko are naturally rivals off the track, but at the latest edition of the “Niki Lauda Award”, the two Austrian managers were jointly recognised with the prize dedicated to the memory of the three-time world champion.
At the Sporthilfe Gala in Vienna, both were celebrated not only as sports personalities of the year but also as Austrian sporting legends who have left a lasting mark throughout their careers. The same award had previously been given to Arnold Schwarzenegger, the former bodybuilder and actor. “The fact that the award bears Niki’s name makes it very special to me,” said Marko. “Niki was much more than just a three-time world champion. He was a fighter, a role model, and, for many of us, a friend. His legacy lives on in our sport, and it is an honour to receive this award.”
A very similar statement came from Wolff, who had the opportunity to work alongside Lauda at Mercedes, when the former Ferrari and McLaren driver became the non-executive chairman of the German manufacturer. “Niki Lauda was not only one of the most important athletes of his time but also a straightforward and determined personality. Above all, he was my friend, with whom I shared a close and special friendship, filled with many highs and lows.”
Alongside Marko and Wolff, Gerhard Berger also received the award. A ten-time race winner during his career with teams such as McLaren, Ferrari, and Benetton, the 66-year-old was recognised, together with the other recipients, with the following words from Sporthilfe director Gernot Uhlir: “These are three racing legends who not only shaped Formula 1 but continue to do so.”
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