McLaren mourns death of major shareholder Mansour Ojjeh

Mansour Ojjeh, a major long-term shareholder at McLaren, has died at the age of 68. The Frenchman was much associated with the British team over the past 40 years and was, therefore, a familiar face in the world of F1. In a short statement, the F1 team announces that the Frenchman passed away peacefully in Geneva.

"It is with deep sadness that McLaren Racing announces the death of Mansour Ojjeh, shareholder of McLaren since 1984. Mr Ojjeh passed away peacefully this morning in Geneva, aged 68, surrounded by his family," the statement read. 

In 1984, Ojjeh joined forces with McLaren and was part of their most successful period in the sport alongside Ron Dennis. His time at McLaren saw the British team secure 10 drivers' titles and nine constructors titles.

The likes of Niki Lauda, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton all drove for McLaren during his tenure.

At GPblog, our thoughts are with McLaren and Ojjeh's family and friends. 

It is with deep sadness that McLaren Racing announces the death of Mansour Ojjeh, shareholder of McLaren since 1984.

Mr Ojjeh passed away peacefully this morning in Geneva, aged 68, surrounded by his family, to whom the team sends its most heartfelt condolences. pic.twitter.com/yAmp4apuYl

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) June 6, 2021

Zak Brown

Brown, the CEO of McLaren has also released a message in the memory of Ojjeh. 

"The passing of Mansour Ojjeh has devastated everyone at McLaren Racing. Mansour has been etched into the heart and soul of this team for nearly 40 years and was intrinsic to its success. He was a true racer in every sense. Ultra-competitive, determined, passionate and, above all, perhaps his defining characteristic: sporting. No matter the intensity of the battle, Mansour always put sport first," Brown said. 

"Mansour was a titan of our sport, yet modest, unassuming and disarming to all he encountered. His easy manner, sharp wit and warm humour touched all those who were fortunate to know him.

"He will remain in death what he was in life: a constant inspiration to all of us at McLaren and beyond. Mansour’s legacy is secure. It is woven into this team and perpetual. We race on as he would wish, our resolve stronger than ever, with his memory and legacy forever in our hearts and minds. All at McLaren Racing express their deepest sympathies to his entire family."