Marlene Knaus: The Life of Niki Lauda’s Former Wife — From Model to Private Life

Introduction

Marlene Knaus is best known as the former wife of Niki Lauda, one of the most famous Formula One drivers in history. Even though she was married to a global sports star, Marlene always chose a quiet and private life. Many people are curious about who she is, what she did before marriage, and how she lives today.

Quick Bio

Detail	Information
Full Name	Marlene Knaus
Birthplace	Austria
Nationality	Austrian
Profession	Former Fashion Model
Famous For	Former wife of Niki Lauda
Marriage Year	1976
Divorce Year	1991
Children	Lucas Lauda, Mathias Lauda
Current Status	Living a private life

Early Life of Marlene Knaus

Marlene Knaus was born in Austria. She grew up in a calm and normal family environment. There is not much public information about her parents or childhood because she never shared many personal details with the media.

From a young age, Marlene had a strong interest in fashion and style. She had a natural beauty and elegant look, which later helped her enter the modeling world. Even in her early years, she preferred a peaceful life and stayed away from public attention as much as possible.

Modeling Career and Public Attention

Before becoming known as Niki Lauda’s wife, Marlene Knaus worked as a fashion model. She was active mainly during the 1960s and early 1970s. At that time, she was admired for her simple beauty and classy style.

Marlene appeared in fashion circles and social events, where she met many well-known people. Her modeling work gave her confidence, independence, and a strong sense of self. Even so, she never chased fame. Modeling was a job for her, not a way to become a celebrity.

Meeting Niki Lauda

Marlene Knaus met Niki Lauda in the early 1970s. At that time, Niki was already becoming famous in the world of Formula One racing. Their relationship grew quickly, and they became one of the most talked-about couples in sports and social life.

Marlene was often seen supporting Niki at racing events. She stayed by his side during both happy and difficult moments. Their bond was strong, and many people admired their relationship.

Marriage and Family Life

Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda got married in 1976. Their marriage happened during one of the most challenging times in Niki Lauda’s life. In the same year, Niki had a serious racing accident that nearly cost him his life.

Marlene played an important role during his recovery. She gave him emotional support and helped him through his healing process. Many believe her strength and care helped Niki return to racing faster than expected.

The couple had two sons together:

Lucas Lauda
Mathias Lauda

Both children grew up away from the media spotlight. Marlene made sure they had a normal and private childhood.

Life in the Public Eye

As the wife of a famous racing driver, Marlene Knaus often appeared in public events. She attended races, award ceremonies, and social gatherings. Still, she never tried to be the center of attention.

Unlike many celebrity spouses, Marlene avoided interviews and media exposure. She did not enjoy fame and preferred to stay in the background. This made her different from many other public figures at the time.

Divorce from Niki Lauda

After many years together, Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda divorced in 1991. The reasons for their separation were kept private. Both respected each other and avoided public drama.

Even after the divorce, Marlene stayed away from media attention. She did not talk publicly about her marriage or personal feelings. This showed her strong wish to live a quiet and respectful life.

Life After Divorce

After her divorce, Marlene Knaus completely stepped away from public life. She did not remarry and chose a private lifestyle. She focused on herself and her family.

She is known to live comfortably but quietly. Unlike many former celebrity spouses, she never used her past fame for business or media work. Her life after divorce is calm, simple, and private.

Relationship with Her Children

Marlene Knaus is known as a caring and devoted mother. She stayed close to her sons and supported them in their personal choices.

Her son Mathias Lauda followed his father’s path and became a racing driver. Marlene supported him but stayed away from public events. She always respected her children’s privacy and independence.

Personality and Lifestyle

Marlene Knaus is often described as elegant, calm, and strong. She values privacy, family, and personal peace. Her lifestyle reflects these values.

She does not use social media and does not appear in interviews. This makes her life different from many people connected to fame. Her story shows that it is possible to live with dignity and privacy, even after being close to global fame.

Why People Are Still Interested in Marlene Knaus

Many people are still curious about Marlene Knaus because:

She was married to a legendary sports figure
She chose privacy over fame
Her life story feels real and respectful
She stayed strong during difficult times

Her life attracts people who admire quiet strength and independence.

Conclusion

Marlene Knaus’s life story is calm, inspiring, and respectful. From her early days as a fashion model to her role as Niki Lauda’s wife and later as a private individual, she always stayed true to herself.

Her story shows that not everyone connected to fame wants attention. Marlene Knaus chose dignity, family, and a peaceful life. That choice is what makes her story special and timeless.