Mercedes and Porsche Mourn Passing of Racing Legend Hans Herrmann

The motorsport world is mourning the loss of Hans Herrmann, a versatile and legendary driver who competed in F1 for Mercedes and achieved iconic status with Porsche in endurance racing. Herrmann, who passed away at 97, was the oldest surviving Formula 1 driver. His career, marked by incredible luck and skill, included a famous Le Mans victory and a daring Mille Miglia escape, earning him tributes from both Stuttgart manufacturers.

Why it matters:

Herrmann's death marks the closing of a chapter for motorsport, as he was one of the last remaining links to the heroic and perilous early days of Formula 1 and sports car racing. His career bridged two of motorsport's most iconic manufacturers, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, making him a unique figure in their shared racing heritage. For modern F1 fans, his story is a reminder of the immense risks drivers took in the 1950s, a stark contrast to the safety standards of today.

The details:

• Formula 1 Career: Made 17 Grand Prix starts for Mercedes in the 1950s. His best finish was a podium—3rd place at the 1954 Swiss Grand Prix behind teammate Juan Manuel Fangio.
• Endurance Racing Legend: Found his greatest success with Porsche, winning the Targa Florio (1960), the Daytona 24 Hours (1968), and culminating his career with a legendary victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1970.
• "Hans in Luck": Earned this nickname for surviving numerous serious accidents in an era known for its fatal dangers.
• The Mille Miglia Stunt: His most famous feat of luck came in 1954 when he drove his Porsche 550 Spyder underneath a closing railway barrier to avoid a passing train, an image he later captioned, "You have to be lucky."

Looking Ahead:

While his time on the track has ended, Hans Herrmann's legacy is cemented in the history books of both Mercedes and Porsche. He will be remembered not just for his victories, but as a symbol of the courage and fortune required to survive motorsport's most dangerous era. His story will continue to be told as a key part of the rich tapestry of Formula 1 and endurance racing history.