Marlene Knaus is a former model and interior designer, best known as the ex-wife of the late Formula One racer Niki Lauda. Their marriage lasted 15 years, ending in 1991. Marlene was a 1960s modelling icon famous for her charisma and fashion sense. This article explores Marlene’s early life, her marriage with Lauda, her career, her net worth, and more.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Marlene Knaus |
| Year of Birth | 1956 |
| Place of Birth | United States |
| Nationality | American, Austrian |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Venezuelan roots) |
| Profession | Former model, Interior designer |
| Famous For | Ex-wife of Niki Lauda |
| Nicknames | Marlene, It girl |
| Current Residence | Ibiza, Spain |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Spouse | Niki Lauda |
| Children | Mathias Lauda, Lukas Lauda |
| Post-Divorce Life | Lives a private life in Ibiza |
Marlene Knaus’s Early Years
Marlene Knaus was born in 1956 in the United States. She has Venezuelan roots and later became an Austrian citizen. Marlene is very private about her personal life. Details about her parents, siblings, and education are not available. This aligns with her privacy preference.
How Old is Marlene Knaus?
Marlene Knaus was born in 1956 and is 68 years old as of 2024. Her zodiac sign is unknown, and she follows Christianity.
Marlene stands at a height of 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) and weighs around 60 kg (132 lbs). She has brown hair and brown eyes, which complement her graceful and elegant appearance
Marlene Knaus Professional Career
Marlene’s modelling career peaked in the 1960s. Known for her grace and beauty, she became a sought-after figure in the modelling world. She appeared on the covers of prestigious magazines and worked with prominent brands. Her signature style and iconic hairdo left a lasting mark in fashion.
Before marrying Niki Lauda, Marlene had a successful modelling career. After modelling, she became an interior designer. Details about her projects are scarce, but her transition to design shows her versatility.
Marriage to Niki Lauda
Marlene and Niki Lauda met in 1975 at a dinner hosted by actor Curt Jurgens, Marlene’s then-boyfriend. Niki was engaged to Mariella von Reininghaus at the time.
Despite this, Marlene and Niki felt a strong connection. Two months later, they started dating. In 1976, they got married in a family-focused ceremony. Their marriage lasted 15 years.
Marlene and Niki have two children: Lukas Lauda, born in 1979, and Mathias Lauda, born in 1981. Mathias became a rally driver while Lukas managed him. In 1982, Niki had an affair, resulting in the birth of his third son, Christoph. Despite the affair, Marlene stayed with Niki for another nine years. They divorced in 1991, but the reasons for their divorce remain unknown.
Life After Divorce
After their divorce, Marlene moved to Ibiza, Spain, choosing a private life away from the media. Niki Lauda later married Birgit Wetzinger, a flight attendant who was 30 years old and his junior. They had twins, Mia and Max. Niki passed away on May 20, 2019, at the age of 70.
Something About Niki Lauda and His Death
Niki Lauda was born in Vienna, Austria on February 22, 1949. He was a famous Formula One driver and aviation entrepreneur. Lauda won the Formula One World Drivers’ Championship thrice in 1975, 1977, and 1984.
He is well-known for his brave return to racing just six weeks after a near-fatal crash in 1976 that left him with severe burns. In addition to racing, he founded three airlines: Lauda Air, Niki, and LaudaMotion.
In 2008, Lauda married Birgit Wetzinger, a flight attendant. They had twins, Max and Mia, in 2009. Niki Lauda passed away on May 20, 2019, due to kidney complications requiring dialysis treatment. His legacy as a determined and resilient sportsman continues to inspire many.
Marlene Knaus’s Net Worth
Marlene Knaus’s net worth is $50 million as of 2024. Most of this wealth came from Niki Lauda’s will. Niki had a net worth of $200 million at the time of his passing. This inheritance has given Marlene financial stability.
What is Known About her Current Life?
As of 2024, Marlene lives in Ibiza, Spain. She stays out of the media spotlight and values her privacy, which allows her to live a peaceful life away from public attention.
Marlene Knaus has made a significant impact in both modelling and design. Her influence in fashion, especially in the 1960s, is still remembered. As Niki Lauda’s ex-wife, she played a notable role in his life. Her legacy is one of grace, resilience, and adaptability.
Final Thoughts
Marlene Knaus’s life is a story of grace and strength. From her successful modelling career to her role as an interior designer and Niki Lauda’s ex-wife, Marlene’s journey is inspiring. Her legacy continues to be remembered in the fashion and design worlds.
(FAQs)
Who is Marlene Knaus?
Marlene Knaus is a former model and interior designer, best known as the ex-wife of the late Formula One racer Niki Lauda.
What is Marlene Knaus’s net worth?
Marlene Knaus’s net worth is estimated at $50 million as of 2024.
How did Marlene Knaus and Niki Lauda meet?
They met in 1975 at a dinner hosted by actor Curt Jurgens, who was Marlene’s boyfriend then.
Did Niki Lauda remarry after divorcing Marlene Knaus?
Yes, Niki Lauda remarried Birgit Wetzinger in 2008, and they had twins, Max and Mia, in 2009.
Where does Marlene Knaus live now?
Marlene Knaus currently lives in Ibiza, Spain.
