World sport dawned in mourning this Saturday (2) with the confirmation of the death of Alex Zanardi, aged 59. The information was released by the former pilot’s family, who reported that he died peacefully on Friday (1st). In a statement, the family thanked the expressions of affection and asked for respect for privacy at this time.
The repercussion was immediate in Italy and . Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described Zanardi as an “extraordinary man”, highlighting his ability to transform adversity into examples of courage and dignity. President Sergio Mattarella said he felt “deep pain” for the loss, highlighting the enthusiasm and strength that marked the athlete’s trajectory.
Career between Formula 1 and international motorsport
Zanardi built part of his career at the highest level of motorsport. Between the 1990s and early 2000s, he competed in 44 Grands Prix in Formula 1, defending teams such as Lotus, Williams, Jordan and Minardi. Despite not having won any victories in the category, he gained notoriety for his aggressive style and ability in adverse conditions.
It was outside of Formula 1, however, that he achieved his greatest results in motorsport. In CART (), he became champion and one of the most respected names in the category.
The accident that changed everything
In September 2001, Zanardi’s career took a dramatic turn. During a race in Germany, he suffered an injury that resulted in the amputation of both legs. The episode shocked the world of sport and cast doubt on its survival.
Against all medical expectations, Zanardi began a long recovery process. More than that, he decided to return to competing, adapting vehicles and challenging physical limits in a way that had never been seen before in motorsport.
New life and Paralympic consecration
Zanardi’s reinvention gained a new chapter in 2007, when he began to dedicate himself to paracycling. In sport, he quickly stood out and built a historic trajectory.
At the London Paralympic Games in 2012, he won two gold medals and one silver. Four years later, in Rio de Janeiro, he repeated his success with two more golds and one silver. Throughout his career, he also accumulated world titles, becoming a global reference in adapted sports.
Last years and legacy
In 2020, Zanardi faced another critical moment when he suffered a serious accident during a charity handbike event, after colliding with a truck. He underwent surgery and a long period of rehabilitation, only being discharged at the end of 2021.
Since then, he has lived more privately with his wife, Daniela, and son, Niccolò.
