Mercedes-Benz Honors Jochen Mass at Pebble Beach Gala

Former Formula 1 Racer Receives Mercedes-Benz Star Driver Award

MONTVALE, N.J., Aug. 19 -- Mercedes-Benz celebrates the accomplishments of legendary race driver Jochen Mass, one of the great Formula 1 competitors, by honoring him as a "Star Driver" at this year's Pebble Beach Gala on Friday, August 15, 2008.

Mass was honored as this year's Star Driver at Pebble Beach during the Mercedes-Benz exclusive gala dinner at the Beach Club at the Lodge. With over 170 guests in attendance, including Jutta Benz, the granddaughter of Karl and Bertha Benz, Mass was formally recognized for his contributions to racing and Mercedes-Benz.

Mass was on the Mercedes-Benz Team from 1988 to 1991 along with other racing legends Michael Schumacher, H.H. Frentzen and Karl Wendlinger. He took wins in the German and European Championships, Formula 1 Grand Prix, and the coveted 24 hours of Le Mans.

On Thursday, August 14, Mass led a Tour d'Elegance in an authentic CLK63 AMG Black Series Formula 1 Pace Car. The tour began at the Polo Field and took a scenic drive to Carmel before returning to the Mercedes-Benz Star Lounge on the Third Green, which is this year's newest attraction at Pebble Beach. Mass was followed by Stirling and Susie Moss in a 1957 300Sc Roadster.

Pioneer, Racing Legend, and Motorsport Commentator

The Star Driver award recognizes individuals who have made great contributions to motorsports and the automobile industry. Mass is the fourth individual to receive the Star Driver designation, joining the ranks of notable icons Sir Stirling Moss, John Fitch, and Denise McCluggage.

While racing with Mercedes Sauber in 1989, Mass, along with teammates Manuel Reuter and Stanley Dickens, brought home a spectacular win at the 24 hours of Le Mans.