at the age of 59, the Italian athlete Alessandro Zanardi, former Formula 1 race driver and para-cycling Paralympic champion.
The athlete’s sudden death was announced by his family with a statement:
“It is with deep sadness that the family announces the death of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly last night, May 1st. Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to everyone who is showing their support at this difficult time and asks that her grieving and privacy be respected during this time.”
Who was Alessandro Zanardi – The two serious accidents
The champion made his Formula 1 debut in 1991 and found success in the CART series in the United States, winning back-to-back championships in 1997 and 1998.
The Italian champion’s career was derailed in September 2001 when he was crippled in a serious high-speed accident during a CART race in Germany.
Due to the severe collision with another single vehicle Zanardi was led to the amputation of both his legs.
Despite the very serious accident, he did not end his sports career, on the contrary, he continued by turning to para-cycling. He distinguished himself there as one of the most successful Italian Paralympic athletes. He won 4 gold and 2 silver medals at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games.
The new serious injury
In 2020, he was unlucky again when he was seriously injured after being hit by a truck while participating in a charity para-cycling relay in Tuscany.
Then he had suffered serious head injuries and spent several years undergoing treatments.
