Ex-Formula 1 and CART driver Alex Zanardi has passed away aged 59. His family released a statement to say it happened “suddenly” but urged that he went “peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.”
Zanardi had a rich history threading through multiple series of Motorsport. In the early 1990s, Zanardi raced for two seasons with Lotus in Formula 1. However, as the team faded from F1, he shifted his focus to America.
He took to CART/IndyCar like a duck to water, fighting for a championship in his first season in the series. He rocketed to success in CART, taking back-to-back titles and producing some of the most impressive overtakes the series has ever seen.
The championship titles, including his more dominant title in 1998 opened up the door for Zanardi’s F1 return. He joined Williams, but unfortunately, the team were struggling when he joined them, and Zanardi fell to the wayside in comparison to his teammate Ralf Schumacher.
His return to F1 was short-lived, and he went back to CART. Unfortunately, at Lausitz, Zanardi suffered a life-changing crash as he exited the pits with 13 laps to go, which led to both of his legs being amputated.
Strength through adversity
But his love of Motorsport went unchanged, and he returned to full-time racing after rehab and not just a return but one that came with great success. He took titles in Italian touring cars and won several races in World Touring Cars. He also took part in DTM and the Daytona 24 Hours.
Beyond traditional racing, he also took part in handcycling competitions. Going to the Paralympic Games in London and Rio, winning four gold medals across the two events. Handcycling became Zanardi’s home until he suffered another accident in 2020.
With a severe head injury, Zanardi took a year to return home, where he maintained a private life until his death on the 1st of May.
His dedication to Motorsport and to achieving his dream despite adversity and setbacks is something to be admired.
Racing in the highest order of Motorsport, to forging his own path after his injuries. He was an inspiration, someone who went through life with a smile and an indeterminable amount of strength.
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