Martin Brundle chokes back tears on live TV after F1 legend dies ‘suddenly’ aged 59 | F1 | Sport

Martin Brundle struggled to hold back tears during an emotional tribute to the late Alex Zanardi live on Sky Sports. The former F1 star turned Paralympic legend died ‘suddenly’ at the age of 59 just hours before the Miami Grand Prix sprint on Saturday. He raced for Jordan, Minardi, Lotus, and Williams between 1991 and 1999, and was also a regular fixture in CART for Chip Ganassi.

Zanardi was seriously injured in a devastating crash in 2001, resulting in the amputation of both of his legs. Incredibly, he later resumed his racing career, securing four victories in the European Touring Car Championship. He also took up hand cycling with the stated goal of representing Italy at the Paralympics.

Not only did he achieve that dream, he won four gold medals for his country at London 2012 and Rio 2016. However, another terrifying crash while hand cycling in 2020 saw Zanardi placed in an induced coma and receive treatment for around 18 months.

In circumstances not unlike those surrounding Michael Schumacher following his skiing accident, his family kept details of his recovery strictly under wraps. Zanardi died on Friday, six years after that fateful day, sending shockwaves around the sporting world.

Brundle was given the opportunity to pay tribute to the Italian before the Miami Grand Prix sprint, with his voice quivering as he summed up Zanardi’s legacy.

“He was the most wonderful character and the most extraordinary individual,” said Brundle. “I mean, the accident he had in 2001 where he lost his legs and pretty much all of his blood, people did not expect him to survive.

“I remember we were at Monza and we actually heard that he hadn’t made it, but he did make it. Within a couple of years, he was in touring car racing and then got into hand cycling, winning gold medals. He just had a relentless competitive nature against all odds.”

Zanardi’s family confirmed the news of his death on Saturday, saying in a statement: “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. The family sincerely thanks everyone who has shown support in these hours and asks for respect for their grief and privacy at this time of mourning.”

Giorgia Meloni, the prime minister of Italy, also wrote: “Italy has lost a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of turning every trial of life into a lesson in courage, strength, and dignity.

“Alex Zanardi knew how to get back in the game every time, facing even the toughest challenges with determination, clarity, and a strength of spirit that was out of the ordinary.

“With his sporting achievements, with his example, and with his humanity, he gave us all much more than a victory: he gave hope, pride, and the strength never to give up.

“On behalf of myself and the government, I extend my heartfelt thoughts and the sincerest closeness to his family and to all those who loved him. Thank you for everything, Alex.”

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