Marlene Knaus is a name many people still search for today. She became famous as the first wife of Formula 1 legend Niki Lauda, but her own story is also very interesting. She was a model, a fashion icon, and a woman who lived a very private life.
During her years with Niki Lauda, Marlene Knaus was often seen at racing events and public functions. People admired her beauty, style, and calm personality. Even after leaving the spotlight, many fans still want to know about her life today.
In this article, we will explore Marlene Knaus’s early life, modelling career, marriage with Niki Lauda, family, and the journey that made her one of the most remembered women connected to Formula 1.
Marlene Knaus Quick Bio
| Full Name | Marlene Knaus |
| Born | 1956 |
| Age | 70 years (2026) |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American-Austrian |
| Profession | Former Model, Interior Designer |
| Famous For | Niki Lauda’s First Wife |
| Ex-Husband | Niki Lauda |
| Marriage | 1976–1991 |
| Children | Lukas and Mathias Lauda |
| Residence | Ibiza, Spain |
| Net Worth | Estimated $40–50 million |
| Status | Alive |
Who Is Marlene Knaus?
Marlene Knaus is a former model best known as the first wife of famous Formula 1 driver Niki Lauda. However, she was already known for her own style and beauty before she became connected with the racing world.
She became popular during the 1960s and 1970s because of her elegant fashion sense. Many people loved her simple look, natural beauty, and famous loose hairstyle. She was even called the “It Girl” because of her unique style.
Unlike many famous people, Marlene Knaus always liked a quiet life. She never tried to stay in the spotlight and preferred to keep her personal matters private.
Marlene Knaus Early Life
Marlene Knaus was born in 1956 in the United States. She has Venezuelan family roots, but details about her parents, childhood, and education are not widely known because she has always protected her privacy.
From a young age, Marlene had an interest in beauty and fashion. Her natural sense of style helped her enter the modelling world and build a name for herself.
Even before meeting Niki Lauda, Marlene Knaus had a strong personality. She was known for being graceful, calm, and different from many public figures of her time.
Marlene Knaus Career as a Fashion Model
Before becoming Niki Lauda’s wife, Marlene Knaus worked as a fashion model. She started her career in the 1960s and soon became known for her elegant appearance.
Marlene appeared in magazines and worked with fashion brands. Her simple style made her stand out because she did not depend on heavy makeup or flashy outfits to get attention.
Her loose hairstyle became one of her most famous looks. Many women admired her fashion choices and saw her as a style inspiration during the 1970s.
Later, Marlene also showed interest in interior design. Her creative side helped her continue working with beauty and design even after leaving modelling.
How Marlene Knaus Met Niki Lauda
Marlene Knaus met Niki Lauda in 1975 at a dinner party. At that time, both had other relationships, but their meeting changed their lives.
Niki Lauda was already becoming a famous Formula 1 driver, while Marlene was known in the fashion world. Their different personalities created a strong connection between them.
Soon after meeting, they started dating. Many people became interested in their relationship because they were both stylish, successful, and well-known in their own fields.
Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda’s Marriage
Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda married in 1976. Their marriage began during one of the biggest periods of Niki’s racing career.
As Niki’s wife, Marlene often attended races and events, but she never tried to become the centre of attention. She supported him quietly while maintaining her own identity.
Their relationship was followed by fans around the world. They looked like a strong couple, and Marlene became an important part of Niki Lauda’s life story.
Marlene Knaus Supported Niki Lauda After His Crash
In 1976, Niki Lauda faced one of the most difficult moments of his life. During the German Grand Prix at Nürburgring, his Ferrari crashed and caught fire.
The accident left Niki with serious injuries, including burns and lung problems. Many people feared he would not survive, but he fought through the pain and returned to racing.
During this hard time, Marlene Knaus stayed beside him. She supported him during his recovery and showed great strength when he needed her most.
Her support became one of the most remembered parts of their marriage. Even though she disliked the dangers of racing, she stood by Niki and helped him through his recovery.
Marlene Knaus Children and Family Life
After years of marriage, Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda started a family together. The couple had two sons, Lukas Lauda and Mathias Lauda. Their children grew up around the world of racing because of their father’s famous career.
Lukas Lauda was born in 1979. Unlike his father, he did not become a racing driver. Instead, he worked behind the scenes and became the manager of his younger brother Mathias.
Mathias Lauda was born in 1981 and followed his father’s path into motorsport. He became a professional racing driver and competed in different racing events. Through his sons, Marlene Knaus remained connected to the racing world even after leaving public life.
Why Did Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda Divorce?
After 15 years of marriage, Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda divorced in 1991. The couple never shared the full reason behind their separation, and they kept the matter private.
Over the years, there were reports that Niki’s relationships outside marriage created problems. However, neither Marlene nor Niki spoke openly about the details of their divorce.
Even after their marriage ended, they continued to respect each other. Niki often spoke kindly about Marlene and remembered her as a strong person who supported him during difficult times.
Marlene Knaus Life After Divorce
After the divorce, Marlene Knaus decided to step away from fame. She moved away from the busy public life and focused on herself, her family, and a peaceful lifestyle.
She later settled in Ibiza, Spain, where she enjoys a quiet life away from cameras and media attention. Unlike many famous people, she did not try to return to the spotlight.
Marlene also stayed away from social media. She reportedly removed her online profiles in 2014 and chose to keep her personal life private. Her love for family, cooking, and animals became a bigger part of her daily life.
Marlene Knaus After Niki Lauda’s Death
Niki Lauda passed away in May 2019 at the age of 70. Before his death, he faced many health problems, including issues connected to his famous 1976 crash and a lung transplant.
Even after their divorce, Marlene Knaus remained connected to Niki and his family. During his final days, she and Niki’s second wife, Birgit Wetzinger, were both there to support him.
Niki’s second marriage was with Birgit Wetzinger, who was a former flight attendant for his airline. They married in 2008 and had twins named Max and Mia. Niki’s later family life became another important part of his story.
Marlene Knaus Net Worth and Estate Details
Marlene Knaus has never shared her exact wealth publicly. However, reports suggest that her net worth is around $40 million to $50 million. Her money is believed to come from her modelling career, divorce settlement, and assets connected to Niki Lauda.
At the time of his death, Niki Lauda’s net worth was estimated to be around $200 million. His estate later became a topic of discussion because of family and inheritance matters.
Marlene continued living comfortably after Niki’s death. She reportedly kept a peaceful home in Ibiza and focused on enjoying her private life rather than seeking public attention.
Where Is Marlene Knaus Now?
As of 2026, Marlene Knaus is living a quiet life in Ibiza, Spain. She rarely appears in public and does not give many interviews. Her decision to stay private has made people even more interested in her story.
Many fans still remember Marlene for her beauty, fashion sense, and the support she gave Niki Lauda during his hardest moments. She is respected as a woman who handled fame with grace.
Marlene Knaus shows that a person does not need to stay famous forever to leave a mark. Even after leaving the spotlight, her story continues to attract interest around the world.
Final Thoughts
Marlene Knaus is remembered for much more than being Niki Lauda’s first wife. She was a successful model, a fashion icon, and a caring mother who built a life away from fame.
Her journey shows a different side of celebrity life. While many people chase attention, Marlene chose peace and privacy. She created a life where family and personal happiness came first.
Today, Marlene Knaus remains a fascinating figure because of her elegance, strength, and quiet personality. Her story continues to remind people that a person’s true value is not only measured by fame, but also by the way they handle life’s biggest moments.
(FAQs)
Where is Marlene Knaus today?
Marlene Knaus lives a private life in Ibiza, Spain, away from the media.
Was Marlene Knaus in Rush?
Yes, Alexandra Maria Lara played Marlene Knaus in the 2013 film Rush.
How old is Marlene Knaus?
Marlene Knaus was born in 1956 and is around 70 years old in 2026.
Why did Marlene Knaus divorce Niki Lauda?
They divorced in 1991. The exact reason was never publicly confirmed.
Is Marlene Knaus still alive?
Yes, Marlene Knaus is alive and living a private life.
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