Italian Alessandro Zanardi won the individual H4 time trial at the London 2012 Paralympic Games (Image credit: Getty Images)

Alex Zanardi, a decorated para-cyclist and former F1 driver, has died at the age of 59.

The Italian took up hand-cycling as a second sporting career after losing both his legs in a motor racing accident in 2001.

“It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly yesterday evening, 1 May,” read the statement. “Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Patrick is an NCTJ-accredited journalist with a bachelor’s degree in modern languages (French and Spanish) and a decade’s experience in digital sports media, largely within the world of cycling. He re-joined Cyclingnews as Deputy Editor in February 2026, having previously spent eight years on staff between 2015 and 2023.…