US Grand Prix qualifying was struck by the heartbreaking news of the demise of Red Bull owner and co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz.
The one without whom we might never have witnessed the Red bull racing team in Formula 1 – Dietrich Mateschitz lost his battle fighting a long-term illness.
He was arguably the brain behind the red bull team. Dietrich Mateschitz bought Jaguar racing in 2004 and renamed it Red Bull racing.
Since then, the team has gone on to win 6 drivers’ titles and is now all set for its 5th constructor crown!
Rumors about his health started growing earlier this month. There were already plenty of concerns related to his health in the media.
It was announced on Saturday before the US GP qualifying in Austin. The exact place of death or the reason for death is not revealed yet. However, it is believed that Mateschitz was fighting a long-term illness – a battle he ultimately lost.
Mateschitz along with Thai investors founded what would become the Red Bull energy drink.
After further development and growth in the market, he expanded the company to be more than just an energy drink company.
Today Red bull is known for sponsoring and funding extreme sports, athletes, stunts, etc. The word adventure is linked with Red Bull and Dietrich Mateschitz has a huge role in making that.
The formula 1 world is saddened by the news
Although he might not actively take part in coming to races or media. Everyone knows the contribution Dietrich Mateschitz has made to not only Formula 1 but motorsports in general.
The man is the reason behind red bull having not one but two teams on the grid.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem also expressed his grief:
“I am deeply saddened to hear the news that Dietrich Mateschitz has passed away.
He was a towering figure in motor sport and with Red Bull. Not only established two hugely successful Formula 1 teams but also supported motor sport of every kind. And helped the careers of countless young drivers through Red Bull’s junior programmes. The thoughts of all the FIA family are with his loved ones at this time and he will be greatly missed.”
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff also came out to give his condolences deeming Mateschitz to be “one of the greatest“
“It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of one of the greatest and most visionary entrepreneurs in the world,”
said Wolff of his fellow Austrian Mateschitz.
“What Dietrich Mateschitz did for Formula 1 is unprecedented – and we send our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
Formula 1 world was not short on the heartfelt messages for Mateschitz and we at Six Sports are also deeply saddened to hear about this news. Our wishes go out to the Red Bull family in these harsh times.
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