The world of Formula 1 is in mourning after the death of Eddie Jordan, one of the most important figures in the history of motor racing. Aged 76 years, he lost his battle against prostate and bladder cancer. His legacy in Formula 1, the innovative spirit he left behind and his personality will be forever etched in the history of the sport.
An innovator in motorsport
From his first go-kart races to the creation of his own team in 1991, Eddie Jordan left an unparalleled mark on F1; his team, Jordan Grand Prix, was a breeding ground for drivers and was the first team to allow Michael Schumacher to make his debut in Formula 1 in 1991. The team managed to accumulate a total of four victories and 19 podium finishes in a total of 250 grands prix, always being a competitor for the best teams such as Ferrari, McLaren, Williams, etc.
As team principal, his greatest success was at the Belgian Grand Prix in 1998, where Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher achieved a one-two at Spa-Francorchamps. Despite numerous financial challenges, Jordan managed to keep his team competitive until 2005, when the structure was sold to the Midland Group.
Eddie Jordan’s legacy in Formula 1
Beyond his time as team boss, Eddie Jordan earned the affection and respect of the motorsport community as a whole for his character and honesty. After selling the team, he became an expert and commentator on BBC Sport and Channel 4, where he provided his take on the sport from 2009 to 2016. His forthright style and ability to predict big moves on the grid, such as Lewis Hamilton‘s move to Mercedes in 2013, made him an influential voice. Jordan also knew how to mix fun and entertainment by appearing on TV shows like ‘Top Gear’ and combining his passion for music with his rock band called ‘Eddie and the Robbers’. Off the track he was a great sailing enthusiast and enjoyed life as intensely as he did his equipment.
Commotion in the paddock
The big news of his death has left all the members of the paddock of Formula 1 feeling helpless as drivers, teams and personalities working in the sport have publicly expressed their great sadness and gratitude for what Eddie Jordan meant both to their lives and to the premier category of motorsport. The family of the deceased driver has confirmed that he died in Cape Town surrounded by his loved ones after several years of a tough fight against cancer.
This coming weekend, Formula 1 will pay a heartfelt tribute to him at the Chinese Grand Prix, while tributes continue to pour in on social networks where his fans and colleagues remember him and thank him for his legacy and his contribution to the sport.
Eddie Jordan leaves behind a story of passion, courage and love for Formula 1. His legacy will be present at every Grand Prix, in every young driver looking for an opportunity and in every fan who enjoys motorsport and F1 thanks to his vision. Rest in peace Eddie Jordan.