Alex Zanardi: Ex-F1 driver and Paralympic champion dies aged 59

Former Formula 1 driver and Paralympic champion Alex Zanardi has died on the age of 59.

The Italian had each his legs amputated after a motor racing accident in 2001 on the Lausitzring monitor in Germany.

He raced for Jordan, Minardi and Lotus in F1 within the early Nineties earlier than switching to the Cart championship within the United States, profitable the sequence in 1997 and 1998.

Following his harm he took up para-cycling and received two golds on the Paralympics in London in 2012 earlier than doing the identical in Rio de Janeiro 4 years later.

“It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly yesterday evening, May 1,” Zanardi’s household introduced.

“Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

“The household wish to categorical their heartfelt due to all those that are displaying their assist presently and ask that their grief and privateness be revered throughout this era of mourning.”