Alex Zanardi, the former Formula One driver who became a Paralympic champion after losing both legs in a racing crash, has died at the age of 59. He passed away peacefully on 1 May, surrounded by his family, according to a statement from his family.
Zanardi, from Bologna, made his F1 debut in 1991 and later found success in the CART series in the United States, winning back-to-back championships in 1997 and 1998. His life changed dramatically in September 2001 when a high-speed crash during a CART race in Germany led to the amputation of both legs.
Refusing to end his sporting career, Zanardi turned to para-cycling and became one of Italy's most successful Paralympic athletes, winning four gold medals and two silver medals at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Games. He also claimed multiple world championship titles in para-cycling and became a powerful advocate for athletes with disabilities.
Tributes poured in from the world of motorsport and beyond. F1 president Stefano Domenicali said Zanardi was 'truly an inspirational person' who faced challenges 'with a smile and a stubborn determination.' Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed him as 'a great champion and an extraordinary man.' The Italian Olympic committee called for a minute's silence at all sports events in Italy this weekend.
Zanardi suffered another serious injury in 2020 when he was hit by a truck during a charity para-cycling relay in Tuscany, sustaining severe head injuries. He leaves his wife, Daniela, and son, Niccolo.
