Comeback kings and queens who defied the odds

Niki Lauda

Austrian driver Lauda appeared to be cruising to a second Formula One world title in 1976 when disaster struck at the German Grand Prix at Nuerburgring.

Lauda's Ferrari swerved off the course and struck an embankment, before exploding into flames. Lauda was trapped in the wreckage and suffered severe burns before being pulled to safety.

He made an incredible return to racing 43 days later at the Italian Grand Prix but was pipped to that year's drivers' crown by James Hunt. Lauda went on to win two more world championships in 1997 and 1984. He died in May last year aged 70.