Former Formula One driver Alex Zanardi, who overcame the loss of both legs in a racing accident to become a Paralympic gold medalist, has died at the age of 59. His family announced his passing on Saturday, saying he died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
Zanardi made his F1 debut in 1991 and later dominated the CART series in the U.S., winning back-to-back championships in 1997 and 1998. His life changed forever in September 2001 during a high-speed crash at a CART race in Germany, which led to the amputation of both legs. He refused to end his sporting career, turning to para-cycling and becoming one of Italy's most decorated Paralympic athletes. He won four gold medals and two silver medals at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Games.
Zanardi also claimed multiple world championship titles in para-cycling and became a powerful advocate for athletes with disabilities. In 2020, while competing in a charity para-cycling relay in Tuscany, he was struck by a truck, sustaining serious head injuries. He spent years in treatment before his death.