Alex Zanardi has been hailed by former Formula One world champion Damon Hill as an “indomitable spirit who turned tragedy into victory” following his death at the age of 59.
Zanardi, who died on Friday, competed in 43 F1 races before winning four Paralympic gold medals after a major crash in the American IndyCar series in 2001 resulted in both of his legs being amputated.
Prior to his accident, the Italian competed for Jordan, Lotus and Williams between 1993 and 1999 in F1.
He recovered from his life-changing operation to win two gold medals in para-cycling at the London Games in 2012, and then again in Rio de Janeiro four years later.
It is understood F1 is likely to pay tribute to Zanardi, either ahead of Saturday’s sprint race in Miami, or before Sunday’s grand prix.
1996 world champion Hill, now 65, who raced against Zanardi, told the Press Association: “Alex was an indomitable spirit. He turned tragedy into victory. But luck was not kind to him. He deserved better.
“He will be remembered as an example of courage and determination, but above all, he was a super nice bloke. And he inspired so many.”
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said in a statement: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Alex Zanardi. He was truly an inspirational person, as a human and as an athlete.
“I will always carry with me his extraordinary strength. He faced challenges that would have stopped anyone, yet he continued to look forward, always with a smile and a stubborn determination that inspired us all.
“While his loss is profoundly felt, his legacy remains strong. At this time, my heartfelt thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his wife Daniela, his son Niccolo, the rest of the family and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Bologna-born Zanardi achieved a best finish of sixth at the Brazilian Grand Prix in 1993 before he made the switch to America to compete in the Cart Championship which he won twice, in 1997 and 1998.
Zanardi made his F1 comeback the following year with Williams, but he endured a disappointing season with the British team.
A return to America followed before his devastating crash at Germany’s Lausitzring which, not only ended his first career, but left his life in the balance.
Zanardi’s heart stopped seven times, but remarkably he drove again – with the aid of a hand-operated brake and accelerator – in the World Touring Car Championships. He even tested an F1 car before hand-cycling propelled him back to the podium.
After competing in numerous marathons, Zanardi won two golds at the Paralympics in London, in the road race and road time trial. Two further golds followed at the next Paralympics in Brazil – in the time trial and mixed team relay – to etch Zanardi’s name into the history books. In all, the Italian won 12 world championships between 2013 and 2019.
Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wrote on Instagram: “Italy loses a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of turning every test of life into a lesson of 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 an out of the ordinary will.
“With his sporting achievements, with his example and with his humanity, he has given all of us much more than a victory: he has given hope, pride and the strength to never give up.”
Alex Zanardi dead: Tributes to F1 driver and four-time Paralympic gold-medallist
F1 Miami GP LIVE: Sprint race start time, schedule and qualifying results
Lando Norris takes pole for Miami GP sprint race with Mercedes on back foot
Lando Norris hails ‘inspirational’ Justin Rose as golfer teams up with McLaren
FIA release statement with thunderstorms forecast for F1’s Miami Grand Prix
Can Lando Norris defend his F1 title? Here’s what the Miami GP will reveal
