Alex Zanardi, the Italian racing driver who reinvented himself as one of para-cycling’s most decorated athletes, died on the evening of Friday 1 May 2026. He was 59.
His family confirmed the news in a statement released on social media. “It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly on the evening of yesterday, May 1. Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family.” No cause of death was given. The statement was issued through Obiettivo3, the charity Zanardi founded.
Born in Bologna on 23 October 1966, Zanardi competed in Formula One between 1991 and 1999 with Jordan, Minardi, Lotus and Williams. His career found its peak across the Atlantic: he won the CART World Series in 1997 and 1998 with Chip Ganassi Racing, claiming 15 victories across those seasons.
In 2001, his car stalled in the middle of the track after a spin at the Lausitzring and was struck by another at a speed of more than 300 km/h. Both legs were amputated.  What followed became the defining chapter of his life. He took up handcycling with the goal of reaching the Paralympics, and went on to win four Paralympic gold medals and 12 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships. 
In June 2020, Zanardi was involved in a serious road collision while competing in the Obiettivo Tricolore handcycling race, undergoing neurosurgery and maxillofacial surgery before being placed in a medically induced coma. He spent more than 18 months in recovery.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described him as “a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of turning every trial of life into a lesson in courage, strength and dignity.” He is survived by his wife Daniela and son Niccolò.
Photo Credit: AP
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