Battle over Niki Lauda inheritance: widow claims tens of millions

It has now been almost four years since Niki Lauda passed away. The three-time world champion was a wealthy man and his inherentance has not (yet) been shared yet. There are even two lawsuits pending, brought by Lauda's widow, media in Austria and Germany report.

Sons Lukas (44) and Mathias (42) are from the first marriage to Marlene Knaus (67). Twins Mia and Max (13) are from the second marriage to Birgit. To avoid any dispute over inheritance, Lauda made sure early on that everything was properly arranged for his two families in case he died. Accordingly, Lauda set up a foundation.

Lauda's widow Birgit (44) is now suing this foundation, claiming some 20-30 million euros. This reports Kurier. Birgit wants this money, although the foundation already pays her a sum of 20,000 euros a month and covers all the costs of maintaining the two villas in Vienna and on Ibiza, including three cars. The salaries of the domestic staff, the children's school fees and holidays are also covered.

Court costs reportedly exceeded €300,000. Ms Lauda saw an application for legal aid rejected, but continues to litigate. The German newspaper Bild quotes a close friend of Niki Lauda as saying that "Niki would turn over in his grave". According to the newspaper, the rest of the family supports the division of the inheritance and is fighting Birgit's case in court.