Alex Zanardi dies aged 59, Motorsport and Paralympic legend passes away

Former F1 driver, CART champion, and Paralympic gold medallist Alex Zanardi has passed away at the age of 59, his family confirmed on Saturday, with the sporting world mourning the loss of a true legend.

“It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly on the evening of yesterday, May 1,” said Zanardi’s family in a statement released to announce the news.

“Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family. The family sincerely thanks everyone who has shown support in these hours and asks for respect for their grief and privacy at this time of mourning. Information regarding the funeral will be shared at a later date.”

The embodiment of resilience and an inspiration to many, Zanardi’s extraordinary life will forever be defined by the legacy he forged following a devastating Champ Car (CART) crash in 2001 that led to the loss of his legs.

Severe and violent, the accident nearly claimed his life. Yet, where such a moment might have halted many sporting careers, Zanardi chose to adapt and move forward.

As a double amputee, the Italian took up handcycling following extensive surgeries and rehabilitation. He went on to compete at the Paralympic level, winning gold medals at both the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games.

His early career showed flashes of promise in Formula 1, making 44 starts across five seasons with teams including Jordan, Minardi, Lotus, and Williams. He scored a single point before bowing out after his final start in 1999.

It was in Champ Car (CART), however, where Zanardi truly defined his motorsport legacy, winning back-to-back titles with Chip Ganassi Racing in 1997 and 1998, captivating fans with his fearless driving style.

In 2006, Zanardi tested a BMW Sauber at Valencia, featuring specially adapted hand controls fitted to the steering wheel. He later returned to racing in various touring car championships and GT categories, competing up until 2019.

Beyond his sporting achievements, Zanardi was a powerful advocate for inclusion and accessibility worldwide. He inspired millions with his perspective on life, often emphasising that he wished to be remembered as someone who adapted to the hand he was dealt.

Zanardi’s passing follows a serious handcycling accident in 2020, after which he remained largely out of the public eye while undergoing long-term rehabilitation. His family confirmed on May 1 that the 59-year-old had passed away.

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Written by

Jawad Yaqub

An eCommerce Specialist by day and reporting on F1 by night. Jawad is passionate about motorsport, having provided accredited F1 coverage for more than a decade and is a member of the AIPS (International Sports Press Association). Live blogging (almost) every grand prix too since 2014, as well as articles on the Supercars Championship. Also keen on sustainability, photography, collecting vinyl, (trying to) expertly barbeque and learning to Dad.

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