Thousands pay their last respects to Niki Lauda

A never-ending stream of fans, mourners and tourists: many took the opportunity to parade in front of the world-famous athlete's coffin; they didn't let the cold, wet and wind stop them from queuing in front of the "Steffl". People of all ages were represented, some of whom also paid tribute to the racing legend with their outfits. Some wore red caps, reminiscent of the deceased's famous headgear.

“Dear God, take good care of Niki. But be careful, he was always the fastest.” One of the intercessions on Wednesday at the requiem in Vienna's St. Stephen's Cathedral for Formula 1 legend Niki Lauda A holidaymaker from England spontaneously decided to attend the funeral ceremonies. “I have huge respect for Niki Lauda and what he has done for motorsport. Many Brits see it similarly. I'll never forget him sitting in the fire and me screaming at the TV, get him out of there! It was also great that he brought Lewis Hamilton to Mercedes,” said the man. Hamilton was one of several hundred guests of honor. Widow Birgit Lauda, Lewis Hamilton and Toto Wolff. © APA / ROLAND SCHLAGER

Cathedral priest Toni Faber also knew Niki Lauda well personally. “Niki Lauda was not only a star in the racing sky, but he was also a star for his family. Away from the public eye, he was a loving husband, father and grandfather, that's what the family writes on the part. And I know that’s true,” he said. “He was an emphatic, humorous, calm, modest, unpretentious person in personal conversation.” Speeches by Berger, Schwarzenegger and Van der Bellen Speeches by Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Gerhard Berger were planned at the funeral mass. Former teammate Alain Prost did the reading. Music pieces such as “Amazing Grace”, “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman, John Lennon’s “Imagine” and “Hero” by the band Family Of The Year were also heard.

After the requiem, the coffin is carried out of the church over the giant gate and lifted into a wagon at Funeral Vienna. The actual funeral will take place in the immediate family circle. The time and location were not announced.

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Thousands pay their last respects to Niki Lauda

Many mourners, including numerous personalities from politics and sports, attended the funeral services for Niki Lauda in Vienna. Many Formula 1 fans also said goodbye to their idol.

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