Former three-time Formula One racing world champion and founder of airlines, Niki Lauda has died in Zurich, Switzerland aged 70.
Lauda, who underwent a lung transplant in August, won the championship for Ferrari in 1975 and 1977 as well as another for McLaren in 1984.
He made a remarkable recovery and return to racing, just 40 days later, following his involvement in a horrific crash in the 1976 German Grand Prix.
Elsewhere, in 1979 Lauda founded five airlines including three in his home country of Austria - Niki, LaudaMotion and Lauda Air - his first foray into the aviation industry in 1979.
Lauda was an accomplished pilot who had expertise in flying in particular Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, 767 and 777.
In March 2018, Ryanair entered into a binding agreement with Niki Lauda to support his plan to develop and grow LaudaMotion, this lasted until January of this year when Ryanair completed the purchase of 100% shareholding in Laudamotion.
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary said in a statement: “Niki Lauda will remain in our heart and our memory as a visionary leader, a legend of Formula 1 and an aviation pioneer. Niki was an exceptional entrepreneur whose courage and fighting spirit inspired millions.
"While we are devastated at his untimely passing, his spirit and vision will live on in LaudaMotion, which proudly carries his name and his entrepreneurial spirit. It’s a sad day for Formula 1 and LaudaMotion. Niki’s spirit and his legacy will live on forever. Niki and his family are all in our thoughts and prayers today. May he rest in peace.”