FORMER McLaren driver Jochen Mass has suffered a medical emergency.
As a result, Mass, 79, will be stepping back from public engagements while he recovers.
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The type of emergency has been kept private by Mass’ close ones.
A statement posted on Mass’ social media pages read: “The family of Jochen Mass, wishes to share that he is currently recovering from a recent medical emergency.
“While Jochen’s condition is stable, he will be stepping back from all public appearances and engagements for the foreseeable future as he focuses on his recovery.
“We as a family are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and kindly request privacy during this time.
“We are wishing Jochen a speedy recovery.”
Mass started 105 races in F1, winning the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix for McLaren and earning seven other podiums.
The German was a team-mate to several World Champions including Emerson Fittipaldi, James Hunt and Keke Rosberg during his career.
Team GB hero Sir Chris Hoy was among the first to send his well wishes, writing: “Get well soon Jochen.”
Hoy – who is suffering from terminal prostate cancer – is a passionate motorsport fan, particularly interested in endurance racing.
While racing driver Andre Lotterer wrote: “All the best. Be strong 
.”
After F1, Mass went onto enjoy incredible success in motorsports.
He won the gruelling 24 Hours of Le Mans for Sauber in 1989.
Mass was also credited for being a monitor to arguably the greatest F1 driver of all time Michael Schumacher while he was coming up.
He reportedly helped convince the seven-time world champion to join Ferarri rather than the then-dominant Williams.
In recent years, Mass has been a brand ambassador for Mercedes.
