Zanardi, motorsport icon and Paralympic champion, dies at 59

Alex Zanardi, the former Formula 1 driver who became one of Italy’s most celebrated Paralympic athletes, has died at the age of 59, his family confirmed. Born in Bologna, Zanardi made his F1 debut in 1991 before achieving major success in the United States, winning consecutive CART championships in 1997 and 1998. His career changed dramatically in 2001 when a high‑speed crash during a CART race in Germany resulted in the loss of both legs.

Refusing to step away from sport, he turned to para‑cycling and went on to win four Paralympic gold medals and two silvers across the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games, becoming a symbol of resilience and reinvention. In a statement, his family said he passed away peacefully on 1 May, surrounded by loved ones, and expressed gratitude for the support shown during this difficult time while requesting privacy as they mourn his loss.