Alex Zanardi, the former Formula One driver who lost both legs in a racing crash and went on to become a Paralympic champion, has died at the age of 59. Zanardi, from Bologna, made his F1 debut in 1991 and achieved success in the Cart series in the United States, winning back-to-back championships in 1997 and 1998.
His life took a dramatic turn in September 2001 when he was involved in a high-speed crash during a Cart race in Germany that led to the amputation of both legs. Zanardi refused to end his sporting career and instead turned to para-cycling, becoming one of Italy's most successful Paralympic athletes. He won four gold medals and two silver medals in the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Games.
“It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly yesterday evening, 1 May,” his family said. “Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.”
Stefano Domenicali, F1 president, said: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Alex Zanardi. He was truly an inspirational person, as a human and as an athlete. I will always carry with me his extraordinary strength.”
Zanardi claimed multiple world championship titles in para-cycling and became a powerful advocate for athletes with disabilities. He suffered another blow in 2020 when he was seriously injured after being struck by a truck while competing in a charity para-cycling relay in Tuscany. He sustained serious head injuries and spent years undergoing treatment.
Giorgia Meloni, the Italian prime minister, hailed Zanardi as “a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of turning every trial of life into a lesson in courage, strength and dignity”. The Italian Olympic committee called for a minute's silence at all sports events in Italy this weekend in his honour. Zanardi leaves his wife, Daniela, and son, Niccolo.
