Some sad news in both the F1 and the cycling world. Former Formula One driver Alex Zanardi has died at the age of 59. His family confirmed the news on Saturday, as reported by Reuters.
From cars to bikes
Zanardi was born in Bologna. He made his F1 debut in 1991 before finding major success in the U.S. There, he won back-to-back CART championships in 1997 and 1998. His career changed dramatically in 2001 after a high-speed crash in Germany resulted in the loss of both legs.
Rather than step away from sport, Zanardi rebuilt his career in para-cycling. He would go on to become one of Italy’s most decorated Paralympians. At the Paralympics he won multiple gold medals at the London and Rio games. Zanard also took several rainbow jerseys in the sport.
His family said that he died peacefully surrounded by relatives and friends, and asked for privacy during the period of mourning.
The collision in 2020
Zanardi later suffered further serious injuries in 2020 after hitting a vehicle during a charity event in Tuscany, spending years in recovery.
At the time, Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Zanardi was descending a hill when he lost control of his handbike. He crashed into an oncoming truck, suffering severe head and facial injuries. He was airlifted to a hospital in Siena, where he was treated in intensive care. In September 2020, reports said he was showing signs of interaction after several facial reconstruction surgeries, but his condition remained serious.
In a post on Instagram, the UCI mourned his passing. “It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, the post read. The UCI pays tribute to a legend of paracycling, a true inspiration and an incredible fighter. His achievements and legacy will never be forgotten.
Tris and marathons as well
As a para-athlete he also competed in triathlons. The Italian competed at the 2014 Ironman World Championship, using a handbike for the bike section and a wheelchair for the run. He also competed at the Berlin Marathon using a hand cycle.
Rest in peace to a truly inspirational athlete.