**Daniel Ricciardo Mourns the Loss of Mansour Ojjeh**
Daniel Ricciardo has paid a heartfelt tribute to Mansour Ojjeh, who passed away at 68 just before the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. McLaren announced that Ojjeh, a major shareholder, died peacefully in Geneva with his family by his side.
The F1 community was shaken by the news, with McLaren CEO Zak Brown expressing deep sorrow. Brown described Ojjeh as integral to McLaren’s success, highlighting his competitive, determined, and sporting nature. “Mansour has been etched into the heart and soul of this team for nearly 40 years and was intrinsic to its success,” said Brown.
Ricciardo shared his tribute on Instagram, posting a photo with Ojjeh and expressing his admiration: “We lost a great man over the weekend. Many of us knew Mansour and shared some great moments with him. Honestly can’t say enough good things. Gonna miss you mate.”
Formula One held a minute’s silence for Ojjeh before the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where Ricciardo finished ninth. After the race, Ricciardo offered condolences to Ojjeh’s wife, Kathy, and his family, acknowledging Ojjeh’s significant impact on McLaren and the sport as a whole.
Ojjeh, who bought into McLaren in 1984, was instrumental in their success, leading the team to seven constructors’ titles and ten drivers’ championships. Lewis Hamilton, who won his first world title with McLaren, also paid tribute, saying, “I carry a heavy heart into the race after the loss of a close friend, Mansour Ojjeh. He had the biggest heart and always carried the biggest smile. I am so grateful to have known such a man. This man loved unconditionally. Rest in peace brother, love you always.”
