A great figure of national historical motorsport celebrates today, Saturday, the March 14, 2026, his 80th birthday: Heinz Schmersal.
The Wuppertal native is not only a fixture in historic motorsport but also a defining personality in German industry. Since 1982 is he managing director of the Schmersal Group, a globally active family-owned company for machine safety and automation technology headquartered in Wuppertal. Under his leadership, the company, with approximately 2,000 employees, developed into an internationally leading provider in the field of security technology and is now present in more than 60 countries. In 2023, he was also awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Wuppertal for his contributions to innovation, international management, and the exchange between business and academia.
In addition to his successful entrepreneurial career, Heinz Schmersal's passion has also been motorsports for decades. Together with his long-time racing partner Mike Stursberg He has a successful track record in historic motorsport.
To the duo's account two German championships, eight master titles in historic motorsport as well 18 overall victories and 72 class victories – a balance sheet that stands for passion, team spirit, and tireless dedication on and off the racetrack.
For many years, Schmersal and Stursberg shaped the historic motorsport scene, thrilling fans with exciting races and consistently strong performances.
Happy birthday Heinz Schmersal warmly and wish him – as well as Mike Stursberg – continued good health, much success, and many more fast laps in historic motorsport. 🏁