Ex-F1 star and Paralympic gold medalist Alex Zanardi dies aged 59

Ex-Formula 1 driver and Paralympic gold medallist Alex Zanardi has died, aged 59.

A statement from his family read: “It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly on the evening of yesterday, May 1.

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“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.”

In the 1990s, the Italian had spells with Jordan, Minardi, Lotus, and Williams, starting 41 races in total.

His best finish came in 1993 when he finished sixth in the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Zanardi also had success in the CART series but in 2001 suffered a high-speed crash in a race in Germany.

This incident led to the amputation of both of his legs.

However, Zanardi turned adversity into glory as he became one of Italy’s greatest Paralympic athletes, inspiring many others along the way.

Competing in para-cycling, he participated in the 2012 and 2016 games in London and Rio de Janeiro, winning six medals in total.

He won two golds and a silver at both.

Zanardi wasn’t done with motorsports either, using modified cars to take part in European and World Touring Car Championships with BMW Team Italy-Spain.

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However, in 2020, he suffered another serious accident in the Obiettivo tricolore, a cycling road race for paralympic athletes.

Motorsport’s global governing body, the FIA, also paid tribute.

A statement said: “The FIA is saddened to learn of the passing of Alex Zanardi, the former Formula 1 driver, two-time CART champion whose journey from life-changing accident to Paralympics gold medallist made him one of sport’s most admired competitors and an enduring symbol of courage and determination.”

Meanwhile, Giorgia Meloni, the Italian prime minister, also praised the indomitable spirit of Zanardi.

She said: “Italy has lost a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of transforming every trial in life into a lesson in courage, strength, and dignity.

“Alex Zanardi knew how to get back in the game every time, facing even the toughest challenges with determination, clarity, and an uncommon fortitude.

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“With his sporting achievements, his example, and his humanity, he gave us all much more than a victory: he gave us hope, pride, and the strength to never give up.

“On behalf of myself and the Government, I extend my heartfelt thoughts and most sincere condolences to his family and all those who loved him. Thank you for everything, Alex.”

His death comes as F1 returns in Miami this weekend following an unprecedented break caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

More tributes are expected to be paid as the racing world reconvenes.