Driver, aviation entrepreneur, author, team manager – it is somewhat difficult to know where to begin when discussing the life of Niki Lauda a man who has excelled in numerous fields throughout his incredible career. Born in Vienna in 1949 Lauda took to a career in Formula 1 against the express wishes of his wealthy parents. After struggling to make a name for himself in the early years of his career while racing with the March team it was his signing with Ferrari in 1974 that kick started Lauda's rise to the top of the sport. Though his talent was still raw he impressed in his first season at the then struggling racing giants, coming in fourth in the championship.  

The following season, however, Lauda excelle and began showing the dynamic, compelling form for which he dwould soon be world famous, taking home his first world championship. Though he started the season slowly his driving improved with each race until he took the title on the last race of the year in the US Grand Prix. The 1976 season would not go so well. Lauda began the season in awe-inspiring form, dominating mercilessly in the early part of the season, taking 5 of the first 7 races. In the 8th race at the terrifying Nurburging in the German Grand Prix, however, disaster would strike. During the second lap Lauda's Ferrari veered off-track before colliding with Brett Lunger's car. The accident left Lauda in a coma and, though Lauda would recover, he would do so with severe scarring across his head and face. Lauda returned triumphant in the 1977 season winning his second championship, though this time the stunning speed which characterised his earlier performances was replaced by a more considered, careful approach. 

In the ensuing years Lauda would come and go from motor racing while pursuing his other interests, namely his chartered airline Lauda Air. He did, however, take another championship against all odds in 1984 driving for McLaren before retiring for good at the end of the following year.