Former Mercedes-Benz racing driver Dieter Glemser dies at 87
Dieter Glemser, a former Mercedes-Benz works team driver who achieved nearly 100 victories, has died at age 87.
87
nearly 100
1971
What Happened
Dieter Glemser passed away on June 10, 2026 at the age of 87. In the 1960s, he was a member of the Mercedes-Benz works team, driving the famous “Racing Fintails” 220 SE (W 111) and 300 SE (W 112). He achieved numerous national and international successes, including victory in the 1963 Poland Rally with co-driver Martin Braungart.
“Mercedes-Benz remembers Dieter Glemser with great appreciation as an outstanding racing driver and popular brand ambassador. His achievements on the race track and his tireless dedication to our brand make him an integral part of our history.”
Participated in his first hillclimb race in Schorndorf.
Won the Poland Rally with co-driver Martin Braungart in a Mercedes-Benz 220 SE.
Won the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC) title driving a Ford Capri RS 2600.
Won the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps with Àlex Soler-Roig.
Won the German Racing Championship in both years.
After retiring from racing, Glemser remained involved in motorsport as an instructor, mentor, and team manager. He spent ten years on the Mercedes-Benz motorsport team starting in 1990, later worked freelance for Mercedes-AMG, and was a beloved brand ambassador for Mercedes-Benz Classic, regularly driving historic vehicles at events.
Why this matters
Glemser was a key figure in Mercedes-Benz motorsport history, winning numerous races and later serving as an instructor and brand ambassador.
Terms in This Story
- Fintail
- Nickname for Mercedes-Benz W111 and W112 models, known for their tail fins.
- ETCC
- European Touring Car Championship, a motorsport series for touring cars.
- Hillclimb
- A motorsport where cars race up a hill against the clock.
- 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps
- An endurance race held annually at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.