Former F1 driver and Paralympic champion Alex Zanardi dies 'suddenly' aged 59

Former Formula 1 driver and Paralympic champion Alex Zanardi has tragically died at the age of 59.

Zanardi made his F1 debut in 1991 racing for Jordan, Minardi and Lotus throughout the early 1990s before switching to the CART championship in the United States.

Driving in the CART series, the Italian achieved huge success, winning back-to-back championships in 1997 and 1998.

However, his career took a tragic turn in 2001 when he was involved in a motor racing accident at the Lausitzring track in Germany that led to both of his legs being amputated.

But he didn't let that stop him from competing as an elite athlete as Zinardi took up para-cycling and went on to win two golds in the Paralympics in London in 2012 before repeating the incredible feat in Rio de Janeiro four years later.

Now, a decade on from his achievements in Rio, the 59-year-old's family have confirmed that he has suddenly passed away in a heartbreaking statement.

"It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly yesterday evening, 1 May," Zanardi's family announced.

"Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

"The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all those who are showing their support at this time and asks that their grief and privacy be respected during this period of mourning."

He also became a 12-time world champion and won the men's para-cycling race at the New York marathon in 2011.

The 2001 crash also was not the end of Zanardi's motorsports career, as he returned in the World Touring Car Championship winning four times for BMW from 2005-09.

FIA release statement following Alex Zanardi's death

Shortly after news of Zanardi's passing emerged, the FIA, Formula One's governing body, released a statement passing on their condolences.

It read: "The FIA is saddened to learn of the passing of Alex Zanardi, the former Formula 1 driver, two-time CART champion whose journey from life-changing accident to Paralympics gold medallist made him one of sport’s most admired competitors and an enduring symbol of courage and determination.

Meanwhile Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that the country had lost "a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of turning every trial of life into a lesson in courage, strength, and dignity".

She added: "Alex Zanardi knew how to get back in the game every time, facing even the toughest challenges with determination, clarity, and a strength of spirit that was truly exceptional.

"With his sporting achievements, with his example, and with his humanity, he gave all of us much more than a victory: he gave hope, pride, and the strength to never give up.

"On behalf of myself and the government, I extend my heartfelt thoughts and the sincerest closeness to his family and to all those who loved him.

"Thank you for everything, Alex."