Alex Zanardi, a former F1 driver who became a Paralympic champion after losing both legs in a crash, has passed away at 59. His family announced his death occurred suddenly on May 1, 2026.
Zanardi’s life changed dramatically after a crash during a CART race in Germany in 2001. He lost both legs in that accident but returned to racing using hand controls. His resilience made him an inspiration.
Before his passing, Zanardi had achieved remarkable success. He won four gold medals and two silver medals in the Paralympics. He also won back-to-back CART championships in 1997 and 1998.
As of midday, tributes have poured in from across the motorsports community. Stefano Domenicali expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his friend. “He was truly an inspirational person, as a human and as an athlete,” he said.
The Italian Olympic committee has called for a minute’s silence at all sports events in Italy to honor Zanardi’s legacy. The FIA also released a statement expressing sadness over the passing of the two-time CART champion.
Zanardi leaves behind his wife, Daniela, and son, Niccolo. His advocacy for athletes with disabilities will be remembered as part of his enduring legacy.
His achievements include competing in the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Paralympics. The impact he made on motor sports advocacy remains profound.
The motorsports world mourns the loss of a great champion and an extraordinary man.
