It is with great sadness that the president of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, Pierre Fillon, presents his most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Niki Lauda, who died yesterday.

“Motorsport involves machines, but it is about human endeavour more than anything. Some drivers make their mark on their discipline, some achieve greatness beyond the sport itself. Niki was one such driver. His attention to detail and fighting spirit was matched by his outstanding talent and admirable personality. His record is witness to that. He was also a great ambassador for motorsport and the values we uphold. He was a guide, a leader. To his son Mathias, a gifted endurance driver, and to all his loved ones, I offer my deepest sympathy at this most difficult time.”