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Alessandro Zanardi, a symbol of resilience, was unanimously praised after his death.

A unique figure in motorsport and para-sports, Alessandro Zanardi died on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the age of 59. Since the announcement of his passing, tributes have poured in on social media from around the world.

Published 02/05/2026 à 15:09

Valentin GLO

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Alessandro Zanardi, a symbol of resilience, was unanimously praised after his death.

Alessandro Zanardi in 2014 - Photo Florent Gooden / DPPI

FIA (International Automobile Federation): "The FIA ​​is saddened to learn of the passing of Alex Zanardi, the former driver of Formula 1"A two-time CART champion whose journey, from the life-changing accident to the Paralympic gold medal, has made him one of the most admired competitors in sport and an enduring symbol of courage and determination." 

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 inspiring person, both as a human being and as an athlete. I will always carry his extraordinary strength within me. He faced challenges that would have stopped anyone, yet he kept looking ahead, always with a smile and a stubborn determination that inspired us all. While his loss is deeply felt, his legacy remains strong. At this time, my sincerest thoughts and deepest sympathy go out to his wife Daniela, his son Niccolò, the rest of the family, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.”

BMW:

“The BMW Group and BMW M Motorsport are deeply saddened by the passing of Alessandro Zanardi. The racing driver, long-time factory driver, and company ambassador passed away unexpectedly in Italy on May 1, as confirmed by his family. “Alex” Zanardi was 59 years old. During this difficult time, the BMW Group’s thoughts are with his wife Daniela, his son Niccolò, and all his relatives and friends. “Alex” was an exceptional 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 accomplished athlete from its family of factory drivers. Goodbye, Alex!”


Chip Ganassi – Alex Zanardi's boss during his CART titles:

“Chip Ganassi Racing and the entire motorsport community have lost more than a legend—the world has lost one of its most extraordinary human beings. Alex Zanardi was the embodiment of resilience, courage, and grace. He played an integral role in transforming Chip Ganassi Racing into what it is today. From the highest levels of motorsport to his incredible achievements beyond, he showed us all what it truly means to fight, adapt, and live with profound purpose. His strength inspired millions, but it was his humility, kindness, and unwavering optimism that made him unforgettable. He didn't just overcome adversity—he redefined what was possible. Rest in peace, Alex. Your legacy will continue to drive us forward, on and off the track.”

David Lappartient – ​​President of the International Cycling Union (UCI): 

“Alessandro Zanardi has left us. A multiple Paralympic champion and a symbol of determination, I wish to pay tribute to a true icon of para-cycling. His achievements will remain etched in our memories. I offer my sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

SSC Napoli – football club: 

“President Aurelio De Laurentiis and everyone at SSC Napoli express their deep sorrow at the passing of Alex Zanardi, a legend of Italian motorsport and sport. An example of resilience who, through immense courage and unwavering determination, demonstrated his profound love for life.”

Giro d'Italia – cycling race: 

"The Giro d'Italia salutes Alex Zanardi and extends its deepest condolences to his family and friends. He leaves us, a man who inspired entire generations to push beyond their own limits." 

GT World Challenge Europe: 

"In memory of Alex Zanardi, a minute's silence will be observed on the grid for Race 1 of the GT World Challenge Europe event this weekend at Brands Hatch." 

Heinz Harald Frentzen, former Formula 1 driver:

“Alex Zanardi, a true fighter who never gave up. From the Lausitzring to Paralympic gold – you showed the world what true strength is. Rest in peace, legend. 🏁❤️”

Theo Pourchaire, pilot Peugeot en WEC : 

"It's a very sad day to lose Alessandro Zanardi. I was lucky enough to start the race with his chassis." karting »

Cadillac F1 Team:

« At the In memory of an inspiring pilot, friend, and human being. His courage, his Her resilience and charm were magnetic and will continue to inspire generations to come. to persevere and succeed, even in adversity. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. You are with us. You will miss it.

Racing Bulls:

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Alex Zanardi, a true driver, a fighter and an inspiration far beyond the track.

Alex was part of our history during the Minardi era. He displayed extraordinary determination, remarkable resilience, and an instantly recognizable passion for racing. His achievements, both on and off the track, transcended motorsport and touched people all over the world.

Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and all those he inspired.

Ciao Alex 💙 »

Alpine F1 Team:

"We are saddened to learn of the passing of Alex Zanardi. He was a friend, a driver, and a fierce competitor in everything he undertook, whether in motor racing, handcycling, or life in general. He lived life to the fullest and will forever remain a champion. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. Goodbye, Alex."

Toto wolff - Director of Mercedes Benz-AMG F1 Team:

“In motorsport, we talk a lot about courage. Every now and then, you meet someone who truly embodies what it means. Alex Zanardi was that person. As a young racing driver, I admired Alex’s talent behind the wheel. What he achieved, particularly in America, demonstrated his immense talent. But what he accomplished after his accident was even more inspiring. He showed that even when life throws you curveballs, it doesn’t have to define you. That adversity can be overcome with humility, humor, and optimism. His example will continue to inspire and remind us what true courage looks like.”

John Doonan – President of theIMSA :

“IMSA joins our global motorsport family in mourning the passing of Alex Zanardi. He will forever be remembered for his accomplishments, not only on the track, but also as a unique and authentic individual. From unforgettable moments on circuits around the world – including his last-lap overtake in the “Corkscrew” right here at Laguna Seca, where we are racing this weekend – to his remarkable achievements as a two-time Paralympic champion and Ironman record holder, Alex was an inspiration and embodied the very essence of perseverance for anyone fortunate enough to have met him or learned about his story. Watching him compete with us in the 2019 24 Hours of Daytona remains a cherished memory for our IMSA community and for all who attended or followed the event. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, teammates, and many friends around the world.”

ALSO READ > Alex Zanardi, the man who never stopped fighting, has died.

Valentin GLO

Journalist. Endurance reporter (WEC, IMSA, ELMS, ALMS) and sometimes F1 or IndyCar.

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Alain Féguenne (🇱🇺 Luxembourg)

02/05/2026 at 03:40 a.m.

An inspiration to us all… an athlete and, above all, a human being. An exceptional career! Alex Zanardi… is going to join… the Angels. 😎🕯️🥲

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