Sabine Schmitz dead – Top Gear star and racing legend dubbed the ‘Queen of Nürburgring’ dies aged 51 after cancer battle

RACING driver and Top Gear favourite Sabine Schmitz has died at the age of 51 from cancer.

The Nürburgring’s best-known female driver, Sabine Schmitz, lost her battle with cancer after more than three years with the disease.

Paying tribute to the famous driver, legendary motorsport complex the Nürburgring tweeted: “The Nürburgring has lost its most famous female racing driver.

“Sabine Schmitz passed away far too early after a long illness. We will miss her and her cheerful nature. Rest in peace Sabine!”

Sabine Schmitz became known to the general public for her appearances on Top Gear.

She has also featured on other television shows, such as Fifth Gear.

Her name is a household name on and around the Nürburgring.

Until now, she was the only woman to win the 24h of the Nürburgring.

Three years ago she made a television appearance on Top Gear when she started testing the then new Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport S on the ‘Ring.’