Tribute – Alessandro Zanardi, the fighter

Having passed away on May 1st, the Italian with extraordinary tenacity inspired the entire world with his unprecedented sporting achievements. An exceptional pilot who became paraplegic following a horrific accident in 2001, and later a multi-medalist at the Paralympics, Zanardi gave the impression that nothing was impossible.

Published 05/05/2026 à 18:00

Medhi Casaurang

  Comment on this article! 2

Tribute – Alessandro Zanardi, the fighter

© BMW M Motorsport

The Corkscrew at Laguna Seca, California, is one of those corners that you approach with respect. At the crest of a ridge, miss the braking point by a few meters and you'll be heading for the run-off area. The corner is not to be taken lightly, and it's not a place conducive to overtaking. In fact, before that Sunday, September 8, 1996, it was practically unheard of. So, when Bryan Herta entered the section in the lead, a few hundred meters from the finish line of this final race, he planned to take the corner without deviating from his usual line. Herta focused, began to obliterate

This article is for subscribers only.

You have 95% left to discover.



Already subscribed?
Sign in


  • Up to -50% savings!
  • Unlimited Premium articles
  • The digital magazine from 20 p.m. every Monday
  • Access to all issues since 2012 on the AUTOhebdo app

Medhi Casaurang

Passionate about the history of motorsport across all disciplines, I learned to read thanks to AUTOhebdo. At least that's what my parents tell everyone when they see my name inside!

Autohebdo Store

See the shop

Comment on this article! 2

Continue reading on these topics:

Read also

Comments

2 Comment (s)

A

Alsterix

07/05/2026 at 06:15 a.m.

You were an unparalleled fighter; your life was a journey of suffering, but also an ode to resilience and an unforgettable smile. Forza Alex, and hats off to you for the example you set for all of humanity.

A

Alain Féguenne (🇱🇺 Luxembourg)

06/05/2026 at 07:24 a.m.

Thank you Alex… for your career and especially your courage. Now you've joined… the angels 🕯️. alainkf1@pt.lu

Write a comment