Marlene Knaus is a former model and interior designer, who gained prominence as the ex-wife of the late Formula One racer, Niki Lauda.
Their marital journey lasted for 15 years, before their divorce in 1991. Knaus was a 1960s modeling icon famous for her charisma and incredible fashion sense.
In this article, we will explore Marlene’s early life, her marriage with Lauda, her career, her net worth, and more.
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Quick Bio
| Full Name | Marlene Knaus |
| Famous as | Niki Lauda’s Ex-wife |
| Nicknames | Marlene, It girl |
| Profession | Former model, Interior designer |
| Year of Birth | 1956 |
| Place of Birth | United States of America |
| Age | 68 |
| Current Residence | Ibiza, Spain |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-spouse | Niki Lauda |
| Children | Mathias Lauda, Lukas Lauda |
| Parents | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Gender | Female |
| Nationality | American Austrian |
| Ethnicity | Mixed |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Net Worth | $43 million |
Marlene Knaus’ Early Life
Marlene Knaus was born in 1956 in United States and has Venezuelan roots. She later became an Austrian citizen.
Marlene maintains privacy in her personal life, hence, details about her parents and potential siblings are unavailable. Details about her educational journey remain unknown as well.
This approach aligns with her preference for privacy, keeping aspects of her personal life away from public knowledge.
Marlene Knaus’ Ex-Husband: Niki Lauda
Niki Lauda, the Austrian Formula One driver and aviation entrepreneur was born on February 22, 1949, in Vienna. He left an unforgettable mark on motorsport history.
His passing on May 20, 2019, at the age of 70, marked the end of a remarkable career. Lauda’s legacy includes three World Drivers’ Championship titles, earned in 1975, 1977, and 1984.
Despite suffering from a horrific crash in 1976 that left him with severe injuries, he returned to racing just weeks later.
His contributions extended beyond racing, with ventures like Lauda Air showing his entrepreneurial spirit.
Even after retirement, Lauda remained a respected figure in motorsport, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Marlene Knaus And Niki Lauda’s Relationship
Marlene and Niki’s love story started in 1975 at a dinner hosted by actor Curt Jurgens, Marlene’s then-boyfriend. Niki was already engaged to Mariella von Reininghaus at the time.
However, Marlene and Niki found themselves intrigued by each other, leading to a swift end of their previous relationships. Two months after their first meeting, the couple started dating.
In 1976, The couple got married in a family-focused wedding ceremony. Their romance, marked by a destined encounter, blossomed into a marriage that lasted for 15 years.
Marlene Knaus And Niki Lauda’s Divorce
Marlene and Niki’s seemingly perfect married life took an unexpected turn in 1982 when Niki engaged in an affair with a woman unknown to the media.
This fling resulted in the birth of Niki’s third son, Christoph. Reports suggest that Niki and the mother agreed to lead separate lives, leading to little to no contact between Niki and Christoph.
Despite the uproar caused by the affair, Marlene chose to remain by Niki’s side for another nine years.
However, the strain proved unbearable, and the couple ultimately parted ways in 1991, ending their 15-year-long union, with the reasons for their divorce remaining unknown.
Marlene Knaus And Niki Lauda’s Children
Niki Lauda and Marlene Knaus share two children, Lucas Lauda, born in 1979, and Mathias Lauda, born in 1981.
Mathias followed in his father’s footsteps, pursuing a career as a rally driver, while Lucas served as his manager. However, in 1982, Lauda became father to another son, Christoph, from an extramarital affair.
Despite the scandal becoming public knowledge, Marlene stood by her husband, showing commitment to their relationship amidst the challenges they faced.
Niki Lauda’s Death
Following his retirement from Formula One racing, Niki Lauda transitioned into the aviation industry, establishing three successful airlines: Niki, Lauda Air, and Lauda.
Despite the challenges, he found love again with Birgit Wetzinger, a flight attendant 30 years his junior. Their union in 2008 was blessed with twin children, Mia and Max.
Tragically, after nearly three decades since their divorce, Niki Lauda passed away on May 20, 2019, at 70.
Reportedly he was undergoing dialysis treatment for kidney issues at the University Hospital of Zurich at the time of his passing, marking the end of an extraordinary journey.
Marlene Knaus’ Career
Before getting married, Marlene had a successful modeling career that reached its peak in the 1960s.
Famous for her graceful demeanor and stunning beauty, she charmed audiences and became a sought-after figure in the modeling and advertising world.
Marlene appeared on the covers of prestigious magazines and showcased prominent brands, leaving an unforgettable mark with her signature style, and her iconic hairdo.
Beyond modeling, she ventured into design, showing her versatile talents and leaving a lasting legacy in the fashion industry.
Marlene Knaus’ Net Worth
Marlene Knaus has a net worth of $43 million as of 2024. This wealth was primarily inherited after her ex-husband Niki Lauda’s passing, as stated in his will.
On the other hand, Lauda had a net worth of $200 million at the time of his passing.
Where Is Marlene Knaus Now?
Marlene is currently 68 years old. For a while she has been staying out of media attention, choosing a serene life in her Ibiza residence.
Her distance from the public eye shows a commitment to privacy, allowing her to live free from the constant gaze of the media.
