Marlene Knaus is best known as the ex-wife of legendary Formula 1 driver Niki Lauda. While her former husband became one of the greatest F1 drivers in history, Marlene Knaus made a name for herself as a fashion icon and model. She was a public figure in the 1970s, recognized for her elegant style and connection to the glamorous world of motorsports. Despite living much of her life in the limelight during her marriage, she has maintained a low profile since her divorce from Lauda in 1991.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marlene Knaus |
| Profession | Former Model, Fashion Icon |
| Nationality | Austrian (Possibly Venezuelan-American) |
| Date of Birth | 1950 |
| Age | 74 Years Old (as of 2024) |
| Notable For | Being Niki Lauda’s Ex-Wife, Fashion Icon |
| Ex-Husband | Niki Lauda |
| Children | Lukas Lauda, Mathias Lauda |
| Current Status | Private Life, Away from Public Eye |
| Net Worth | Estimated in the Million-Dollar Range |
Early Life and Background
Not much is known about Marlene Knaus’s early life, as she has always been a private person. Some sources suggest she was born in 1950, and though there are claims about her Venezuelan-American heritage, she later moved to Austria.
Before meeting Niki Lauda, Marlene was already a well-known figure in the European social and fashion circles. She had a natural grace, elegance, and effortless beauty, which made her a favorite among photographers and designers.
Age and Physical Attributes
As of 2024, Marlene Knaus is 74 years old. Even in her youth, she was known for her classic beauty, with her signature shoulder-length dark brown hair and refined sense of style.
Her graceful and sophisticated look made her a fashion icon in the 1970s, and she was often seen at elite social events and F1 races alongside Niki Lauda. Even after stepping out of the public eye, her style and elegance remain admired by many.
Marlene Knaus’s Modeling Career
Before becoming Niki Lauda’s wife, Marlene Knaus was a successful model. She was known for her natural beauty, poised demeanor, and ability to carry any outfit effortlessly.
During the 1970s, she was considered a fashion icon in Europe, appearing in various high-profile fashion events and magazines. While she did not have an extensive modeling career like supermodels of that era, she was a prominent socialite, attracting attention for her timeless fashion sense.
Relationship and Marriage with Niki Lauda
Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda met in the early 1970s, and their relationship quickly became the talk of the motorsports world.
- They got married in 1976, the same year Niki Lauda suffered a near-fatal crash at the Nürburgring Grand Prix.
- Marlene was by his side during his incredible recovery, showing immense strength and support.
- Their marriage lasted for over 15 years, making them one of the most talked-about power couples in sports and entertainment.
Despite Niki Lauda’s intense and demanding career, Marlene was seen as his rock and emotional support during some of his most challenging times.
Who Is Niki Lauda?
Niki Lauda was one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time. He won three F1 World Championships (1975, 1977, and 1984) and became a legend in motorsports.
Some key highlights of his career include:
- Surviving a near-fatal crash in 1976, returning to racing just six weeks later.
- Winning F1 titles with Ferrari and McLaren, making history in both teams.
- Becoming a businessman and aviation entrepreneur, founding Lauda Air.
Niki Lauda’s legacy in motorsports remains unmatched, and his relationship with Marlene Knaus was one of the most high-profile aspects of his personal life.
Challenges and Triumphs
Being the wife of a Formula 1 champion was not easy. Marlene had to endure:
- The constant stress and fear of Niki’s high-risk career.
- His horrific 1976 crash, which left him with severe burns.
- The relentless media attention that came with being married to a sports legend.
Despite all these challenges, Marlene stood by Niki’s side, helping him recover and supporting his incredible comeback to racing.
Divorce and Its Aftermath
After 15 years of marriage, Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda divorced in 1991.
- Their separation was reportedly amicable, and they remained on good terms.
- Even after their divorce, Marlene continued to be respected in the motorsports world.
- Niki Lauda later remarried Birgit Wetzinger, but he and Marlene remained friends.
Despite their divorce, Marlene never remarried and has chosen to live a private life away from the public eye.
Life as a Mother
Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda had two children together:
- Lukas Lauda – Works as a sports manager.
- Mathias Lauda – Followed in his father’s footsteps and became a professional racing driver.
Marlene played an important role in raising her children, ensuring they had a stable and supportive upbringing despite their father’s high-profile career.
Marlene Knaus’s Financial Overview
Although Marlene Knaus has kept her financial details private, she reportedly received a significant settlement from her divorce with Niki Lauda.
- Niki Lauda had an estimated net worth of over $200 million, and Marlene likely benefited from their divorce agreement.
- She has lived a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle, though she has avoided the public spotlight.
Legacy and Current Life
Marlene Knaus remains a fashion and motorsport icon, even though she has not been in the media for years.
- She is believed to be living a private life in Ibiza, Spain.
- She has not remarried and has chosen to stay away from the public eye.
- Her legacy as Niki Lauda’s first wife and a 1970s fashion icon still fascinates motorsport fans.
Even though she has distanced herself from fame and media attention, her contribution to Lauda’s life and career is still remembered.
Conclusion
Marlene Knaus may have been known as Niki Lauda’s wife, but she is more than just the ex-wife of a racing legend. From being a model and socialite to a supportive partner and mother, she has lived a fascinating life.
Her relationship with Niki Lauda made headlines, but her grace and elegance kept her respected even after their divorce. Today, she continues to live a private life, away from fame, but remains a memorable part of Formula 1 history.
FAQs
Who is Marlene Knaus?
Marlene Knaus is a former model and fashion icon, best known as the ex-wife of Formula 1 legend Niki Lauda. She was a well-known figure in the 1970s social scene.
How old is Marlene Knaus?
Marlene Knaus was born in 1950, making her 74 years old as of 2024.
What was Marlene Knaus’s profession?
She was a successful model and socialite in the 1970s, recognized for her timeless fashion sense and elegant style.
When did Marlene Knaus marry Niki Lauda?
Marlene Knaus married Niki Lauda in 1976, the same year he suffered a near-fatal crash at the Nürburgring Grand Prix.
Do Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda have children?
Yes, they have two sons—Lukas Lauda, who works as a sports manager, and Mathias Lauda, who became a professional race car driver.
When did Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda divorce?
The couple divorced in 1991 after 15 years of marriage but remained on good terms afterward.
What is Marlene Knaus’s net worth?
Her exact net worth is unknown, but she reportedly received a significant divorce settlement from Niki Lauda, whose fortune was estimated at over $200 million.
Where is Marlene Knaus now?
Marlene Knaus is believed to be living a private life in Ibiza, Spain, far away from media attention.
Did Marlene Knaus remarry after divorcing Niki Lauda?
No, Marlene never remarried after her divorce from Niki Lauda and has remained out of the public spotlight.
Why is Marlene Knaus still famous?
She is remembered as a fashion icon of the 1970s, the former wife of an F1 legend, and a key figure in Niki Lauda’s personal and professional journey.
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