Jochen Mass, a former Formula One driver, has passed away at the age of 78. The news was confirmed by his family, who reported that Mass died on Sunday in Cannes, France, due to complications from a stroke he suffered in February.

Born in Dorfen, Bavaria, Mass competed in 105 Formula One races between 1973 and 1982. During his career, he achieved eight podium finishes and is best known for his time with the storied British team McLaren.

Notably, Mass celebrated his sole Grand Prix victory on April 27, 1975, when he won the Spanish Grand Prix in a McLaren-Ford Cosworth at the Montjuïc circuit in Barcelona.

This victory marked a significant milestone in his racing career, which he later likened to scoring a goal in a national team match.

The joy of that win was marred by a tragic incident during the same race, where a horrific crash involving driver Rolf Stommelen led to fatalities among spectators.

In addition to his Formula One career, Mass gained further acclaim in endurance racing, notably winning the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1989. He drove a Sauber-Mercedes alongside Manuel Reuter and Stanley Dickens, securing his place in motorsport history.

After retiring from racing, Mass remained engaged with the sport as a commentator and advisor, maintaining a keen interest in Formula One.

He notably advised seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher in 1996 to join Ferrari, suggesting that restoring the team to its former glory would enhance Schumacher’s legacy in Italy.

Mass's contributions to motorsport and his legacy as a respected driver endure, reflecting the passion he brought to the racing world.