The tragic news today that Alex Zanardi has passed away has prompted an outpouring of emotion across the motorsport world and beyond.
Here is a selection of key tributes, which DSC will add to as they come in:
Giorgia Meloni, Italian Prime Minister
“Italy loses a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of turning every trial of life into a lesson in courage, strength, and dignity. Alex Zanardi knew how to get back in the game every time, facing even the toughest challenges with determination, clarity, and a strength of spirit that was truly exceptional.
“With his sporting achievements, with his example, and with his humanity, he gave all of us much more than a victory: he gave hope, pride, and the strength to never give up.
“On behalf of myself and the Government, I extend my heartfelt thoughts and the sincerest closeness to his family and to all those who loved him.
“Thank you for everything, Alex.”
Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M
“Alex Zanardi was one of the most extraordinary people I have ever had the privilege of meeting. His courage, his zest for life, his positive energy and his passion for motorsport deeply impressed and touched all of us at BMW M. Alex was far more than an outstanding athlete and ambassador for our brand. He was a true member of our BMW M Motorsport family.
“Together with BMW M Motorsport, Alex wrote a very special story. He showed what is possible when talent, determination, trust and technical expertise come together. His achievements in the race car were impressive, but the impact he had as a person was even greater. With his unwavering attitude and optimism, he inspired people all over the world. We are losing a wonderful human being, a great fighter and a friend.
“Our thoughts are with his wife Daniela, his son Niccolò and his family. We will miss Alex very much, and at BMW M we will always keep a special place for him in our history and in our hearts.”
BMW Group & BMW M Motorsport
The BMW Group and BMW M Motorsport mourn the passing of Alessandro Zanardi. The racing driver, long-standing works driver and corporate ambassador passed away unexpectedly in Italy on 1st May, as confirmed by his family. “Alex” Zanardi was 59 years old.
In these difficult hours, the thoughts of the BMW Group are with his wife Daniela, his son Niccolò, and all his relatives and friends. “Alex” was a wonderful human being, an unwavering optimist and an inspiration to many people around the world. The company has lost a compelling humanitarian and representative; BMW M Motorsport has lost an ambitious and successful athlete from the family of its works drivers.
Zanardi was born in Bologna on 23rd October 1966. After competing in Formula 1, where he contested 41 Grands Prix, he moved to the American CART series and became Champ Car champion in 1997 and 1998. In a dramatic racing accident at the Lausitzring on 15th September 2001, he lost both legs and had to be resuscitated several times. But Zanardi never gave up and, in 2005, made his comeback as a BMW Motorsport works driver in the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) as a double amputee – a comeback he crowned with victory at Oschersleben on 29th August 2005. He also contested several 24-hour races for BMW Motorsport, competed in the Blancpain Sprint Series in 2014, and made guest appearances in the DTM.
Alongside his motor racing career, Zanardi also began a new sporting career and once again demonstrated what is possible in life with dedication, willpower and ambition. In handcycling, he won two gold medals at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London. Four years later, at the Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, he again won two gold medals and one silver medal in handcycling.
“He also completed several long-distance triathlons, including the legendary Ironman in Hawaii. In 2007, he finished fourth in the New York Marathon. Through his “Bimbingamba” foundation, Zanardi supported children and young people who had suffered amputations and did not have access to adequate care. Through “Obiettivo 3”, he helped to involve athletes with disabilities being introduced to sport.
After another serious accident during a handcycling competition near Pienza on 19th June 2020, Alex Zanardi withdrew from the public eye. Lovingly cared for by his family, he moved between hospital, rehabilitation and his home in Padua. Alex Zanardi once said: “You want to climb the mountain because it’s there and you know you can do it.”
Now, the ultimate survivor has embarked on his final journey. Ciao, Alex!
Chip Ganassi, owner and founder of Chip Ganassi Racing
“No words can express my feelings about this guy.
“Chip Ganassi Racing and the whole racing community has lost more than a legend — the world has lost one of its most extraordinary human beings.
“Alex Zanardi was the definition of resilience, courage, and grace. He was integral in shaping Chip Ganassi Racing into what it has become. From the highest levels of motorsport to his incredible achievements beyond it, he showed us all what it truly means to fight, to adapt, and to live with purpose. His strength inspired millions, but it was his humility, kindness, and unwavering positivity that made him unforgettable.
“He didn’t just overcome adversity — he redefined what was possible.
“Rest in peace, Alex. Your legacy will continue to push us forward, on and off the track.”
Stéphane Ratel, founder and CEO of SRO Motorsports Group
“Alex was a great man and tremendously inspiring. It was an honour to meet him and to welcome him into our championship. While he has left us, he will remain a figure of huge importance in motor racing and beyond.”
SRO Motorsports Group
SRO Motorsports Group is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Alex Zanardi.
Alex was more than just a great competitor: he was an inspirational man whose fighting spirit never diminished.
His achievements behind the wheel of a race car and at the controls of a handcycle will be remembered by fans around the world for years to come. So too will his courage, his resilience, and his sense of humour.
As part of his remarkable return to motor racing following the loss of his legs in 2001, Alex competed in the Blancpain GT Series Sprint Cup (2014) and at the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa (2015). As well as a fierce competitive spirit, he also brought his charm and sense of fun to the paddock.
SRO extends its condolences to his family – especially his wife Daniela and their son Niccolò – as well as Alex’s many friends and colleagues.
A minute’s silence will be held on the grid for Race 1 of this weekend’s GT World Challenge powered by AWS event at Brands Hatch. Coincidentally, it was at the British circuit that Zanardi won two gold medals at the 2012 Paralympic Games.
Max Papis, driver, long-time friend
“My best friend since I was 12 years old, my HERO, Godfather of my son, has left us with tears in my eyes but smiles in my heart.”
Marshall Pruett, IndyCar reporter
“There are people you love, and then there are the select few you LOVE. If you knew Alex Zanardi, you loved that man with a passion, an instant friend, filled with charm and child-like wonderment for life.
“And raging, unanswerable speed; the puzzle his IndyCar rivals could rarely solve. And the wit and mischief. It was nigh-on impossible to spend time with ‘The Pineapple’ without laughing–often at your own expense.
“All that life would eventually take from him, and yet he remained a gift. The ultimate overcomer and motivator. To summon a smile and fight through the physical pain and mental anguish to go outside and live–truly live–is to honour him.
“LOVED Alex Zanardi, like the millions whose lives were bettered by his humanity and excellence.”
John Elkann, Ferrari president
“On behalf of myself and all of Ferrari, I wish to express our deepest condolences for the passing of Alex Zanardi.
“With Alex, we lose an absolute protagonist of our sport and a person capable of leaving a mark on everyone who met him. His talent, determination, and humanity spoke to generations, far beyond the confines of the track.
“He built a remarkable career in the world of racing, distinguishing himself through his passion and competitive spirit. Even beyond motorsport, with his Paralympic victories in London and Rio, he became a role model and an example, bringing his strength far beyond the confines of sport.
“Ferrari joins us in mourning Alex and all he represented for sport and for our country.
“Our deepest thoughts go out to his family and loved ones.”
John Doonan, IMSA president
“IMSA joins our global motorsports family in mourning the loss of Alex Zanardi.
“He will forever be known for his accomplishments, not just on the racetrack, but as a one-of-a-kind and genuine personality. From unforgettable moments on racetracks all over the world – including his last-lap pass for victory in The Corkscrew right here at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca where we are racing this weekend – to his remarkable achievements as a Paralympic gold-medal winner and IRONMAN record holder, Alex was an inspiration and exemplified the epitome of perseverance to anyone who had the good fortune to encounter him or learn his story.
“Having him join us for the 2019 Rolex 24 At Daytona as a competitor remains a cherished memory for our IMSA community and everybody who attended or viewed that event. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, his teammates, and his many friends all over the world.”
Honda Racing US
“Today, we mourn the loss of Alex Zanardi. A true racer, a fierce competitor, and an extraordinary human being.
“A two-time open wheel champion for Honda and a handcycling champion, Alex embodied the Challenging Spirit that pushes everyone at Honda and HRC. His impact on our sport, and on Honda, will never be forgotten.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable life.”
FIA
The FIA is saddened to learn of the passing of Alex Zanardi, the former Formula 1 driver, two-time CART champion whose journey from life-changing accident to Paralympics gold medallist made him one of sport’s most admired competitors and an enduring symbol of courage and determination.
Team RLL
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Alex Zanardi. Alex never stopped showing the world what was possible. A true legend, on and off the track. We are forever grateful to have been part of his story.
Vincent Vosse, WRT team principal
“If I had to put a face to the word ‘hero’, there is no doubt yours would be the perfect fit.
“The way you handled everything that life threw at you, is something that everyone should take note of. There was no complaining, just tenacity and great humour.
“You set the standard, not just as a driver, but as a person.
“Rest in peace, Alex. Your smile is one I will never forget.“
Derek Daly, former IndyCar & F1 driver
“One of the most impressive human beings I’ve ever known. What an inspiration he was. RIP, my friend. Very sad for so many reasons.”
Mike Hull, Chip Ganassi Racing managing director
“Alex Zanardi used to say, ‘I have a little bit in my pocket.’
“And he always did. Fame didn’t change him—he stayed humble, real, and true to who he was.
“He changed lives… including mine. Rest easy, my friend.”
Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of Formula 1
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Alex Zanardi. He was truly an inspirational person, as a human and as an athlete. I will always carry with me his extraordinary strength.
“He faced challenges that would have stopped anyone, yet he continued to look forward, always with a smile and a stubborn determination that inspired us all. While his loss is profoundly felt, his legacy remains strong.
“At this time, my heartfelt thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his wife Daniela, his son Niccolò, the rest of the family and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Mario Andretti, driver
“In the game of life, Alex Zanardi left nothing in the tank.
“I remember when he asked me to write the foreword for his book. I asked him anything you want me to say? He said: ‘Well, I need to order new legs- how tall do you think I should be?'”
Martin Haven, WTCC commentator
“A true gentleman, his attitude to his accident was remarkable: he frequently said he was the luckiest man, because he woke up every day with his wife and son… and he could so easily have died in the wreckage of his car, but for some truly remarkable work by the IndyCar medical team at Lausitz.
“The emotions when he returned to racing in the WTCC and won in Brno in his specially-adapted BMW were remarkable; there was not a dry eye in the place.
“To follow his second racing career in touring cars and GTs with a third as a Paralympic athlete showed his utter, relentless passion and determination… and how appropriate that he celebrated his London 2012 Paralympic Gold medal success at Brands Hatch, neatly tying his careers together.
“To have nearly lost his life in such a horrific manner, to have created not one, but two successful careers, despite his injuries, is frankly mind-boggling. A racer and a human like few others.”
David Malsher Lopez, RACER.com editor-at-large
“After Alex Zanardi and the CART Indy car team felled the Grim Reaper back in September 2001, we thought he was indestructible. His success in the Paralympics surely proved it. Yet now he is gone and we are left devastated. What a man he was. What a hero he is.
“Who knows how long this true ironman would have continued finding success in handcycles without his 2020 accident, or along which path his inquisitive mind and resolute spirit might have led him? Whatever, we can be certain this human dynamo would have made a success of it, because that’s just how he always was: audacious and dauntless.
“Most would surely agree that even before his 2020 accident, Zanardi and his loved ones had been through too much already. Few really knew what they went through subsequently. Today, through the tears, we salute a fantastic driver, but also a wonderful man and an example to all.
“Ciao, Alessandro. We may never see your like again.”
Read his full obituary HERE
IndyCar
The IndyCar community mourns the passing of Alex Zanardi. A two-time series champion, 15-time race winner and one of the sport’s most inspiring figures, his legacy on track was matched only by the strength of his character.
Autodromo Nazionale Monza
The Autodromo Nazionale Monza joins in the mourning for the passing of Alex #Zanardi. The Bolognese native was an unforgettable example of resilience and strength of spirit.
The Temple of Speed extends its deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Holly Cain, motorsport reporter
“He encouraged me through my first cancer fight. Alex Zanardi was not only a champion racer but an extraordinary and kind human. So honoured to have covered his CART championship career and success thereafter, overcoming so much. Love and peace to his family and so many friends!”
Antonio Garcia, driver, former teammate
“I was lucky to have him as my teammate for over two seasons, and all the memories I have bring a smile to my face.
““Tonino! Dopo la prima curva guarda nello specchietto che lo zio sarà già lì”
“Look in your mirror after turn 1, “Lo Zio” will be there.
“Rest in peace, my friend.”
Zak Brown, CEO McLaren Racing
“Alex Zanardi was an amazing driver, a fierce competitor and a personal inspiration to me. We are all deeply saddened to hear of his passing. Our thoughts are with all of his friends and family.”
Bryan Herta, driver & team owner
“Respect and love Alex. For millions, you were an inspiration and a doer of the impossible.
“My last and best memory is of us at Daytona, Rolex, I appreciate your kindness for Colton and everything you accomplished. Godspeed!”
UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale)
It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Alessandro Zanardi. The UCI pays tribute to a legend of ParaCycling, a true inspiration and an incredible fighter. His achievements and legacy will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Alessandro.
David Tremayne, F1 journalist, long-time friend
“A traditional obituary might begin by providing a litany of its subject’s myriad achievements. But when it’s a friend, and when that friend is of the huge calibre of Alex Zanardi, a much deeper and illustrative portrait of an extraordinary man might be painted by the random memories that come flooding back.
“He deserves to be remembered as a wonderful friend, a talented driver and a very special man of immense charisma and boundless courage, whose demonstration of the power of the human spirit will remain an absolute inspiration unparalleled in his chosen sports.”
Read his full obituary HERE
Gary Anderson, F1 journalist and former F1 technical director
“I was there at the LausitzRing when he had his accident and I actually sort of had to go and do an analysis of the car and of the accident for the circuit and the police. It wasn’t a pleasant sight and that memory will stay with me forever.
“Alex, it was great to know you, you showed the world that setbacks shouldn’t interfere with your dreams. Anything is possible if you apply yourself to it.”
Read his full obituary HERE
Toto Wolff, Mercedes-F1 team principal
“In motor racing, we talk a lot about courage. Every now and then, you meet someone who truly defines what that means. Alex Zanardi was that person.
“As a young racing driver, I admired Alex’s skills behind the wheel. What he achieved, particularly in America, showed what a talent he was. What he achieved after his accident was even more inspiring, though. He showed that even when life challenges you, it does not have to define you. That adversity can be overcome with humility, humour and optimism.
“His example will continue to inspire and act as a reminder of what true courage really looks like.”
Carlos Sainz Jnr, driver
“Saddened to hear about the loss of Alex Zanardi. A great example to all of us. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Ford Racing
Alex Zanardi was a force in motorsports not only because of his overwhelming talent but even more so for his remarkable spirit. His determination, passion for life and the inspiration he brought to us all will be his legacy.
The sport and this world are better for the time he spent here. Our prayers and our thoughts are with his family and many friends.
Graham Goodwin, DSC editor-in-chief
“Alex was so much more than a racing driver, though he was world class at that too of course.
“More than anything I’ll remember his generosity in interview, not just to me as a guy with (then) a few grey hairs, but to some writers who sometimes saw his story as an asset, some asking some pretty blunt and personal questions. Seconds later they’d get it – his answers always had more worth than their questions!
“His story, the tragedy of it and his response to that personal tragedy is one of the most inspirational tales I ever heard. To hear him telling it personally was humbling and frankly astounding.
“My favourite Alex moment though didn’t involve his first career, or his comeback second time in motorsport, it involved his final triumphal efforts in Paralympic sport.
“The London 2012 Olympics, and subsequent Paralympics, saw my final innings in a non-motorsport ‘day job’ and a key part of my final lap was managing a team responsible for making sure that the transport planning around the Games went as it should.
“In a little down-time amongst the team I told them Alex’s background story, played a few interviews posted online etc. And that’s how an entire office full of British people cheered an Italian to a Gold Medal at Brands Hatch, ironically the place I was when news broke of his Lausitzring accident.
“History will never forget his achievements, his triumphs and his spirit. Neither will I.”
Stephen Kilbey, DSC editor
“I vividly remember the first time I saw Alex race, at Brands Hatch in 2006, while he was in the thick of his WTCC journey with BMW, aboard his 320si with tricolour stripes across the bonnet. And I recall my dad explaining to me just how lucky we were to see him at work.
“I was too young to have been aware of his success in CART during the 90s, and I had no idea just how much he’d been through when I sat at Paddock Hill Bend that weekend, but it didn’t take long for me to realise that he was, and always will be, a true hero.
“I feel extraordinarily lucky not just to have met him on multiple occasions with my family as a fan, but also in a work setting, reporting on his racing and interacting with him during his years in GT racing. He was one of those rare people whom you feel utterly privileged to share a room with, let alone speak to. Yet he was the most humble, down-to-earth person, always generous with his time, with a wonderful sense of humour and an unmatched drive to move forward.
“Something that will stay with me, forever, was the moment he entered the deadline room at Daytona for his media time before his Rolex 24 debut. Everything stopped. You could hear a pin drop when he began speaking (above). Anyone who has worked in that place knows just how rare it is for someone to take the mic during that event and stop absolutely everyone in their tracks, but Alex did. Everyone listened, everyone was fixated, and everyone felt fortunate just to be there.
“There truly is no adjective to describe how special he was. A family man, a racing legend, a hand-cycling icon, a national hero, and seemingly a friend to everyone he came across. The world is a far worse place without him.”
Andrew Hall, award winning photographer & DSC contributor
“The word “Hero” gets used way too often but in the case of Alex Zanardi it doesn’t even begin to describe this remarkable man.
“I had the privilege of photographing Alex at the Gold Coast Indy car on many occasions including his win in 1998. Alex was always fabulous to photograph, quick with a cheeky smile and just such a genuine person.
“His survival and comeback from the Indycar accident in 2001 that took his legs, his return to racing in specially modified cars and his transition to Paralympic gold medal winning Hand Cyclist was the stuff of Hollywood movies. Fate delivered another blow in 2020 with a severe accident whilst competing in an Italian national road race for paralympic athletes. Unfair for someone who had already been through so much.
“Alex displayed courage and determination beyond comprehension for us mere mortals and inspired so many including many paraplegic and amputee race car drivers and athletes.
“I always remember the quote from Alex after the woke from surgery after losing his legs in 2001: ‘When I woke up without legs, I looked at the half that was left, not the half that was lost'”
RJ O’Connell, DSC North America and Asia correspondant
“Alex Zanardi wasn’t just a terrific racing driver, but one of the greatest sportsmen the world has ever known.
“I feel extremely fortunate to have become a racing fan with some of my earliest memories as a child being Zanardi’s dominance of CART in the late ‘90s. I remember where I was when I learned of his accident in 2001, but I also remember the joy that I felt when he continued his driving career in 2003, to finish the 13 laps at Lausitzring that he couldn’t on that fateful day.
“Every accolade in touring cars that came after was an extra blessing. And the four Paralympic gold medals made him a transcendent hero of world sport in a time when people were starting to lose faith in the athletes they once revered.
“In 2019, Zanardi drove in the Super GT x DTM Dream Race at Fuji Speedway, and when I watched Race 2, seeing Zanardi’s BMW near the front of the field late in the race, it was special. Knowing now that it was his last-ever motor race, that is the memory that I will keep from that event.
“I will never forget the joy that I felt to see Alex perform and achieve so much, and inspire all of us.”
Images courtesy of BMW, Dan Bathie
