**Daniel Ricciardo Mourns the Loss of Motorsport Icon Mansour Ojjeh**
Daniel Ricciardo has paid a heartfelt tribute to Mansour Ojjeh, a significant figure in motorsport, who passed away at the age of 68 before the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. McLaren announced that Ojjeh, a major shareholder, died peacefully in Geneva surrounded by his family.
Ojjeh, a Saudi billionaire, bought into McLaren in 1984 and, along with former partner Ron Dennis, helped establish the team as a dominant force in Formula 1. McLaren boss Zak Brown described Ojjeh’s death as devastating, highlighting his nearly 40-year influence on the team and his passion for the sport.
Ricciardo took to Instagram to honor Ojjeh, sharing a photo and writing, “We lost a great man over the weekend. Many of us knew Mansour and shared some great moments with him. Honestly can’t say enough good things. Gonna miss you mate.”
Before the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Formula One held a minute of silence in Ojjeh’s memory. Ricciardo, who finished ninth in the race, also extended his condolences to Ojjeh’s wife, Kathy, and his family, acknowledging Ojjeh’s significant contributions to McLaren and the sport.
Ojjeh’s leadership saw McLaren win seven of their eight Constructors’ World Titles and 10 of their 12 Drivers’ Championships since 1984. Lewis Hamilton, who secured his first of seven world titles with McLaren, paid tribute to Ojjeh, recalling his large heart and ever-present smile. Hamilton expressed his gratitude for knowing Ojjeh and conveyed his heartfelt farewell, “Rest in peace brother, love you always.”
