Who Is Marlene Knaus? Everything About Niki Lauda’s Ex-Wife

Marlene Knaus may not be a household name, but her connection to Formula One legend Niki Lauda has kept her in the spotlight for decades. As Lauda’s first wife, she was a crucial part of his life during his peak racing years. Despite living a private life after their divorce, interest in her story remains high.

Who is Marlene Knaus? What happened to her after separating from Niki Lauda? This article explores her life, career, relationship, family, and where she is now.

Early Life and Background

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Marlene Knaus was born in 1956 in the United States, though she later moved to Austria. Her exact birthplace remains unclear, but she has Austrian-American nationality with Venezuelan roots. Very little information is available about her childhood, parents, or siblings, as she has always preferred a private life.

Unlike many public figures, Marlene never shared details about her upbringing or early influences. However, she was deeply involved in the fashion industry at a young age, which ultimately shaped her identity.

Modeling Career and Rise to Fame

Before marrying Niki Lauda, Marlene Knaus was already a well-known fashion icon and model. In the 1960s and 1970s, she gained recognition for her unique style and elegance.

She was best known for her signature loose hairstyle, which became her trademark look. Many magazines and brands admired her effortless beauty and poise, making her a sought-after model.

During this time, she became a famous socialite and “It Girl,” meaning she had a strong influence on fashion trends. Her presence at high-profile events made her a standout personality in Austria’s elite circles.

Relationship with Niki Lauda

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Marlene Knaus met Niki Lauda in the early 1970s, and their connection was instant. At the time, Niki was rising in the world of Formula One racing, and Marlene was already a fashion icon.

Their relationship quickly gained public attention, as they were seen as one of Austria’s most glamorous couples. After dating for a few years, they married in 1976, just before one of the most challenging moments in Lauda’s life.

Marlene stood by Niki after his near-fatal crash at the Nürburgring Grand Prix in 1976. The accident left him with severe burns and life-threatening injuries, but Marlene remained a pillar of strength. Many reports suggest that her support played a key role in his recovery.

However, after 15 years of marriage, Marlene and Niki divorced in 1991. The exact reason behind their separation remains unknown, but sources indicate that they grew apart over time. Despite the divorce, they maintained a civil relationship, especially for the sake of their children.

Family and Children

Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda had two children together:

• Mathias Lauda (born 1979) – Followed in his father’s footsteps as a professional race car driver. He competed in several racing events, though he never reached the same level of success as Niki.
• Lukas Lauda (born 1981) – Chose a different career path, becoming Mathias’ manager and handling his business affairs.

After the divorce, Marlene never remarried, nor did she have any other children. Meanwhile, Niki Lauda remarried Birgit Wetzinger, a former flight attendant, with whom he had twins in 2009.

Net Worth and Financial Standing

Marlene Knaus has always lived a low-profile life, but she reportedly has a net worth of approximately $43 million. Her wealth likely comes from her modeling career and divorce settlement with Niki Lauda.

While she has never spoken about her financial status, it is believed that she lives comfortably and maintains her privacy. Unlike some ex-wives of celebrities, Marlene never used her past relationship to gain fame or fortune.

Where Is Marlene Knaus Now?

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Since her divorce from Niki Lauda, Marlene Knaus has stayed out of the public eye. She is rumored to live in Ibiza, Spain, away from media attention.

Marlene has never given interviews or made public appearances, maintaining a life of complete privacy. Even after Niki Lauda’s passing in 2019, she remained silent, choosing not to comment publicly.

Her decision to stay away from fame has only increased her curiosity about her current lifestyle. However, sources suggest that she enjoys a peaceful life away from the spotlight.

Physical Attributes and Personal Style

Marlene Knaus was known for her timeless beauty and effortless elegance. She stood at 5 feet 8 inches (172 cm), with a slim physique that made her a perfect model in the 1970s.

Her natural, undone hairstyle became her trademark, setting her apart from other models of her time. Even after stepping away from the public eye, she remains admired for her classic fashion sense.

Does Marlene Knaus Use Social Media?

Unlike many public figures, Marlene Knaus has no known social media accounts. She has never engaged with platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.

Her decision to avoid social media aligns with her private nature, as she prefers to keep her life away from public scrutiny. This makes finding recent updates about her life incredibly difficult.

Legacy and Influence

While Marlene Knaus is no longer in the spotlight, she remains a fascinating figure due to her past with Niki Lauda.

She was a significant part of Niki’s journey, standing by him during some of his most difficult moments. Although they divorced, she will always be remembered as an important chapter in his life.

Her elegance, style, and mysterious presence continue to make her a subject of interest and admiration. Even without seeking attention, Marlene Knaus’ legacy lives on in the world of motorsports and fashion.

Conclusion

Marlene Knaus’ life is a perfect example of grace and discretion. While she was once a famous model and socialite, she chose to step away from the limelight after her divorce from Niki Lauda.

Even though she remains out of public view, her name still sparks curiosity, thanks to her connection to one of the greatest F1 drivers in history. While we may never know much about her private life, one thing is clear—Marlene Knaus has mastered the art of staying elegantly mysterious.

FAQ

1. Is Marlene Knaus still alive?

Yes, Marlene Knaus is still alive but remains completely private.

2. Did Marlene Knaus remarry after divorcing Niki Lauda?

No, she never remarried and has lived a private life since the divorce.

3. What is Marlene Knaus’ net worth?

Her estimated net worth is $43 million, mainly from her modeling career and divorce settlement.

4. Where does Marlene Knaus live now?

She is rumored to reside in Ibiza, Spain, away from the media.

5. Why did Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda divorce?

The exact reason is unknown, but sources suggest they drifted apart over time.