John Alex
Marlene Knaus, born in 1956, is an Austrian-American former model best known as the ex-wife of legendary Formula One driver Niki Lauda. Although her husband’s extraordinary career often overshadowed her public presence, Marlene played a pivotal role in his life, standing by him through triumphs, crashes, and personal struggles. Known for her classic beauty and elegance, Marlene rose to prominence as a fashion model in the 1970s before her life shifted into the spotlight of international motorsport. Her story is not only about being connected to a racing legend but also about resilience, love, and maintaining privacy after fame.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marlene Knaus |
| Date of Birth | 1956 |
| Age (2025) | 69 years old |
| Place of Birth | Austria (exact city undisclosed) |
| Nationality | Austrian-American |
| Profession | Former Model, Public Figure |
| Famous As | Ex-wife of Formula One legend Niki Lauda |
| Spouse | Niki Lauda (m. 1976–1991, divorced) |
| Children | Mathias Lauda (racing driver), Lukas Lauda (manager) |
| Notable Role | Supportive partner during Niki Lauda’s career and 1976 Nürburgring crash |
| Public Image | Known for elegance, resilience, and media presence in the 1970s–80s |
| Post-Divorce Life | Lived a private, low-profile lifestyle after 1991 |
| Current Status (2025) | Lives privately at 69, away from media, focused on family |
Early Life and Background
Marlene Knaus was born in 1956, and while details about her early upbringing remain limited, she grew up in a time when fashion and culture were undergoing transformative changes. She became part of a generation of young women who embraced individuality and style, qualities that later defined her modeling career. Though her heritage is often described as Austrian-American, Marlene maintained a cosmopolitan lifestyle that fit well with the glamour of her future years in motorsport and fashion circles.
Growing Up and Heritage
Little is publicly known about Marlene’s childhood, which she has deliberately kept private. However, her early years were shaped by European influences that later translated into her elegant fashion sense. Her charm and charisma eventually led her toward modeling, where she quickly made a mark. Even before meeting Niki Lauda, Marlene was admired for her presence and personality, making her a respected figure in high-society circles.
Entry into the World of Fashion and Modeling
In the early 1970s, Marlene Knaus entered the world of modeling, where she soon gained recognition for her unique look and confident demeanor. With her chic style and natural grace, she became associated with Europe’s growing fashion scene. Marlene was not just a model but also a style icon of her era, often praised for her timeless elegance. Her work brought her into contact with prominent personalities, setting the stage for her eventual entry into the exclusive world of Formula One.
Fame as a Model in the 1970s
By the mid-1970s, Marlene had established herself as a well-known figure in modeling. Unlike many who faded with trends, she remained relevant due to her sophistication and charm. She embodied the effortless beauty of the decade, often compared to international style icons. This visibility made her a frequent guest in elite events and gatherings, where she eventually met her future husband, Niki Lauda. Their meeting would change the trajectory of her life forever.
Meeting Niki Lauda – A Love Story Begins
Marlene Knaus met Niki Lauda, the Austrian Formula One driver, during the peak of his racing career. Lauda was already a celebrated athlete, known for his discipline and unmatched talent on the track. Their meeting sparked an instant connection, and the two quickly became one of the most talked-about couples of their era. Their romance was glamorous yet grounded, as Marlene provided stability and emotional support to a man who constantly lived on the edge in one of the world’s most dangerous sports.
Marriage to Niki Lauda (1976)
In 1976, Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda tied the knot in a highly publicized wedding. That same year was also one of the most dramatic in Lauda’s career, marked by his near-fatal crash at the German Grand Prix at Nürburgring. Marlene became known for her unwavering strength during this time, standing by her husband as he battled life-threatening injuries. Their marriage symbolized not just love but also resilience, as Marlene supported Niki in his recovery and eventual return to racing.
Marlene Knaus’s Role During Niki Lauda’s Racing Career
Being married to one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time was both glamorous and challenging. Marlene embraced the role with grace, often described as the steady presence in Niki Lauda’s turbulent life.
Standing by Him During Triumphs
Marlene celebrated Niki’s victories with pride, including his three Formula One World Championships (1975, 1977, and 1984). As he became a global icon, she remained the calm anchor at home, ensuring that family life balanced the intensity of his career.
Supporting Through Crashes and Struggles
The darkest moment of their marriage came in August 1976, when Niki suffered a fiery crash that left him with severe burns. Marlene’s support during his painful recovery was widely admired. She stayed by his side through hospital visits and rehabilitation, helping him regain strength and confidence to return to racing just weeks later.
Motherhood – Raising Mathias and Lukas Lauda
Marlene and Niki’s marriage was blessed with two children: Mathias Lauda and Lukas Lauda. Mathias, born in 1981, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a professional racing driver, competing in events such as the GP2 Series and endurance championships. Lukas, born in 1979, pursued a career in management and became heavily involved in overseeing Mathias’s racing career. Marlene took pride in raising her sons, instilling values of discipline, respect, and resilience.
Life as the Wife of a Formula One Champion
As the wife of a celebrated racing legend, Marlene Knaus experienced both privilege and pressure. She traveled across the globe for races, mingled with influential figures, and lived within the intense spotlight of motorsport. Yet, she maintained her individuality, often admired for her style and composure. Despite her glamorous public image, Marlene focused primarily on family, proving that behind every great athlete is often a strong, supportive partner.
Media Attention and Public Image in the 1980s
During the 1980s, Marlene was a constant subject of media attention. Photographers often captured her elegant looks during races and public events. She became known as one of the most stylish women associated with Formula One, setting trends with her effortless chic. However, she also learned to navigate the downsides of fame, dealing with constant media scrutiny of her marriage and personal life.
Divorce and Life After Separation (1991)
After nearly 15 years of marriage, Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda divorced in 1991. The separation ended one of Formula One’s most iconic relationships but was carried out with mutual respect. While Niki Lauda later remarried and had more children, Marlene chose to maintain a private life, avoiding the spotlight as much as possible. Despite the divorce, Marlene’s influence on Niki’s life and career was undeniable, especially during his most critical years.
Relationship with Her Children After Divorce
Post-divorce, Marlene focused on her role as a mother. She continued raising Mathias and Lukas, maintaining strong ties with her children. Her presence in their lives remained significant, providing emotional grounding and support as they carved out their own identities. Marlene’s dedication as a mother highlights her most important achievement beyond her marriage or modeling career.
Low-Key Lifestyle and Avoidance of the Spotlight
Unlike many celebrities linked to public figures, Marlene chose a life away from the limelight after her divorce. She rarely appeared in interviews and avoided media appearances, preferring to live privately. This decision allowed her to maintain dignity and peace, a stark contrast to the constant spotlight of her earlier years. Her low-key lifestyle made her somewhat mysterious, further adding to her allure in public memory.
Connection with Niki Lauda After Divorce
Though divorced, Marlene and Niki remained on good terms, especially for the sake of their children. Their respectful post-marriage relationship demonstrated maturity and mutual understanding. Even after moving on with their lives, Marlene continued to be associated with Niki’s legacy due to their shared family and history.
Marlene Knaus’s Current Life and Where She Is Now
As of 2025, Marlene Knaus is 69 years old and continues to live privately. Unlike her ex-husband, who remained in the spotlight until his passing in 2019, Marlene has chosen discretion. She is occasionally mentioned in media reports related to the Lauda family, but details about her current residence and activities remain largely unknown. Her life today is focused on family and personal peace, away from public attention.
Legacy of Marlene Knaus in Motorsport History
Marlene Knaus holds a special place in the history of Formula One—not as a driver, but as the woman who stood by one of its greatest champions during his most defining years. Her elegance, strength, and dedication left an imprint on fans and the racing community. Though she never sought fame for herself, her legacy lives on through her children and the enduring memory of her role in Niki Lauda’s journey.
Net Worth and Personal Achievements
While Marlene’s individual net worth is not publicly confirmed, she benefited from her years with Niki Lauda and continues to be recognized for her personal achievements as a model and public figure of her time. More importantly, her greatest achievements lie in raising her two sons and maintaining her dignity throughout life’s challenges. Unlike many linked to celebrities, she succeeded in creating her own identity while remaining part of a legendary legacy.
Conclusion
Marlene Knaus, born in 1956, is remembered not only as the ex-wife of Niki Lauda but also as a woman of strength, elegance, and resilience. From her career as a model in the 1970s to her years as the supportive wife of a Formula One champion, Marlene’s life embodies grace under pressure. Her role in raising Mathias and Lukas Lauda ensured the continuation of the Lauda legacy. Today, she lives privately, leaving behind a lasting impression of dignity and class. While often overshadowed by Niki Lauda’s fame, Marlene’s story deserves recognition as a vital chapter in motorsport history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Marlene Knaus?
Marlene Knaus is a former model best known as the ex-wife of Austrian Formula One legend Niki Lauda.
When did Marlene Knaus marry Niki Lauda?
She married Niki Lauda in 1976, during the peak of his racing career.
How many children does Marlene Knaus have?
She has two sons: Mathias Lauda, a professional racing driver, and Lukas Lauda, a manager.
Did Marlene Knaus remarry after Niki Lauda?
No public record suggests that Marlene Knaus remarried after her divorce from Niki Lauda in 1991.
What is Marlene Knaus doing now?
As of 2025, Marlene lives privately and away from the media, focusing on family and personal life.
What role did Marlene Knaus play in Niki Lauda’s life?
She was a supportive partner during his racing triumphs and stood by him after his 1976 Nürburgring crash, playing a vital role in his recovery.
Is Marlene Knaus still in touch with the Lauda family?
Yes, she has maintained a respectful connection, especially through her children, Mathias and Lukas.
For More Update and Stories Visit: The Europe Times
