Alex Zanardi, the former Formula 1 driver, CART champion and Paralympic gold medallist, has died at the age of 59, his family has confirmed.
“It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly yesterday evening, 1 May,” his family said in a statement.
“Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
“The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all those who are showing their support at this time and asks that their grief and privacy be respected during this period of mourning.”
Formula 1 and CART success
The Italian made his Formula 1 debut in 1991 and later raced for teams including Lotus and Williams, but it was in America where he became one of the defining drivers of the CART era. Known for his spectacular style, racecraft and charisma, Zanardi won back-to-back championships in 1997 and 1998.
Return to racing after Lausitzring crash
After a brief comeback to Formula 1 with Williams, Zanardi returned to CART where in 2001 his life changed forever when he lost both legs in a horrific crash at the Lausitzring. He later returned to racing after losing both legs, competing in the World Touring Car Championship with BMW and later also in GT3 machinery.
Paralympic career and later accident
Zanardi then built another extraordinary career in hand-cycling, becoming a multiple Paralympic champion with four gold medals and two silver medals at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games.
In 2020, he suffered severe head injuries in a handbike accident and spent the following years undergoing treatment. According to his family, Zanardi passed away peacefully on 1 May, surrounded by those closest to him.
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