Michele Alboreto
1956-2001
Italian racing driver Michele Alboreto (44) is dead. It is with deep regret and sadness that AUDI AG must announce the death of their works driver at 5:30 p.m. today while test driving the Audi R8 racing sportscar on the Lausitzring in Saxony, Germany.
The racing sportscar with Michele Alboreto at the wheel was on a straight section of the Lausitz circuit when, for as yet unknown reasons, the vehicle went off the track and rolled.
Head of Audi Sport, Dr Wolfgang Ullrich spoke about the accident in his first statement as an "incomprehensible tragedy". In preparation for the 2001 season, the vehicle involved in the accident had already completed thousands of test miles on numerous circuits without any problems.
Dr Ullrich: "We will do everything in our power to find the reason for this accident. But right now our thoughts and condolences are with Michele's wife Nadia, his two daughters, and his whole family."
The former Formula 1 driver Michele Alboreto became world vice champion in 1985 with Ferrari. His last great success came several weeks ago with a victory at the Sebring 12 Hour race in the USA.
Michele's major sportscar victories:
1981 Watkins Glen Six Hours
1982 Nurburgring 1000 Kilometres
1997 Le Mans 24 Hours
2001 12 hours Sebring
STATEMENT FROM SCOTT ATHERTON, PRESIDENT AND COO, PANOZ MOTOR SPORTS GROUP
ON THE DEATH OF MICHELE ALBORETO
"Today's news is very sad for all of motorsports. Michele Alboreto was a
champion in every sense of the word. His mere presence in the starting field
for one of our events added prestige and excitement. We were honored to have
him as part of the winning team last month at Sebring and last year at the
Petit Le Mans. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his family, and to his
teammates and friends at Audi. Tonight, we are grieving along with his fans
from around the globe. He will be missed."
Photo Courtesy:ALMS/GARRY DODDS
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