Ex-Formula One driver turned Paralympic champion Alex Zanardi dies aged 59
Summary
Alex Zanardi, an Italian former Formula One driver who became a Paralympic cycling champion after losing both legs in a racing accident, has died at age 59. He was well known in Italy for inspiring people with disabilities and won four Paralympic gold medals.Key Facts
- Alex Zanardi died suddenly but peacefully, surrounded by family and friends.
- He was a four-time Paralympic gold medal winner in cycling.
- He lost both legs in a 2001 car accident during a race after being hit by another car at over 186 mph.
- Zanardi also suffered serious head injuries in a handbike crash in June 2020 in Tuscany.
- He raced in Formula One during the 1990s and won the CART racing series in the U.S. in 1997 and 1998.
- Italian leaders praised him for his courage and for changing how people in Italy view disability.
- A minute of silence will be held at upcoming races in his honor.
- Zanardi is survived by his wife Daniela and their son Niccolo.
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