The motorsport world is mourning the loss of Eddie Jordan, the legendary F1 team owner and pundit. The 76-year-old passed away on Thursday in Cape Town, South Africa, after battling aggressive prostate and bladder cancer. His family confirmed that he died peacefully with loved ones by his side.
Figure 1: The motorsport world is mourning the loss of Eddie Jordan, the legendary F1 team owner and pundit. [Getty Images]
A Legacy That Shaped Formula 1
Eddie Jordan was a defining figure in Formula 1. His Jordan Grand Prix team, which he managed from 1991 to 2005, launched the careers of some of the sport’s biggest stars, including seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher.
Despite his deep ties with Schumacher, Jordan never got the chance to see his friend again after the German driver’s tragic skiing accident in 2013. Schumacher suffered a severe brain injury, and since then, his health has remained a closely guarded secret.
Denied Access to Schumacher
In 2022, Jordan publicly shared his sadness over being unable to visit Schumacher. He reached out to Michael’s wife, Corinna, hoping to see him, but she denied the request.
“I reached out and at one stage asked was it appropriate and did I think we should go and visit him,” Jordan told the Irish Daily Mirror.
“The answer was no. No visitations for anyone at that moment except the actual direct family.”
Despite this, Jordan understood Corinna’s decision. “She’s a lovely girl, and I knew her when she married Michael,” he said. “She has set out some rules, and I respect that.”
Corinna, who has fiercely protected Schumacher’s privacy, has allowed only a few select people to visit him, including former Ferrari boss Jean Todt.
Tributes Pour in for the F1 Icon
Following Jordan’s passing, tributes flooded in from the F1 community. Schumacher’s brother, Ralf, who started his career with Jordan’s team, was among the first to express his grief.
“We had a fantastic time in Cape Town. Your love of music and the many live performances are unforgettable,” Ralf said.
“I can hardly believe you lost your battle with the disease. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to start my F1 career with your team. I will always be grateful for that.”
F1 pundit Martin Brundle also paid his respects: “RIP my friend. Condolences to each and every one of your lovely family. What a character. What a rock star. What a racer.”
Former BBC presenter Jake Humphrey called Eddie Jordan a one-of-a-kind personality in F1. “Formula One won’t see the likes of Eddie ever again. More important than race wins, he won hearts.”
F1 president Stefano Domenicali described Jordan as “a protagonist of an era of F1” and said, “With his inexhaustible energy, he always knew how to make people smile, remaining genuine and brilliant at all times.”
A Career That Defined an Era
Jordan never drove in F1, but he had a successful racing career in lower-level series, including Formula 2, Formula 3, and Formula Atlantic. He also competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1981 before transitioning into team ownership.
His Jordan Grand Prix team made its debut in 1991 and quickly became a fan favourite. The team secured its best result in 1998 when Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher finished first and second at the Belgian Grand Prix.
After selling his team in 2005, Jordan became a beloved F1 pundit. He joined the BBC’s Grand Prix coverage in 2009 and later worked with Channel 4 and Sky Sports.
Remembering Eddie Jordan
Jordan was known for his bold personality, sharp insights, and love for the sport. Despite his illness, he remained engaged with the F1 community. He made his final public appearance on live radio last month, where he apologised for “not being himself” due to cancer treatment.
His contributions to Formula 1 will never be forgotten. He was more than a team owner—he was an icon who shaped the careers of future champions and brought joy to millions of fans worldwide.
The world of motorsport has lost a legend. Rest in peace, Eddie Jordan.
