Eddie Jordan, F1 legend, dies at 76 after battle with cancer

Eddie Jordan, known for his larger-than-life personality and deep impact on F1, died peacefully in Cape Town on March 20, surrounded by his loved ones. His family released a statement honoring his legacy:

"EJ brought an abundance of charisma, energy, and Irish charm everywhere he went. We all have a huge hole missing without his presence. He will be missed by so many people, but he leaves us with tonnes of great memories to keep us smiling through our sorrow."

Jordan founded his own F1 team in 1991, leading it to four victories before selling it in 2005. He famously gave Michael Schumacher his debut at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix, launching the career of a driver who would go on to win seven world championships. His team’s greatest moment came in 1998 when Damon Hill secured a one-two finish at the Belgian Grand Prix.

After leaving team ownership, Jordan became a beloved TV personality, offering sharp analysis and entertaining insights as part of BBC and Channel 4’s F1 coverage. He even made a brief appearance as a Top Gear presenter, further cementing his place in motorsport media.

Tributes pour in from the racing world

Edmund Patrick Jordan (Photo: Getty Images)

Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed deep sorrow over Jordan’s passing, remembering him as a key figure in the sport: "We are deeply saddened to hear about the sudden loss of Eddie Jordan. With his inexhaustible energy, he always knew how to make people smile, remaining genuine and brilliant at all times. Eddie has been a protagonist of an era of F1 and he will be deeply missed."

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner also reflected on his first encounter with Jordan back in 1991: "Eddie was a hugely colorful character who I first met as a young driver at his then new factory. His advice? ‘Get a good sponsor … welcome to the Piranha Club!’ Formula One has lost a legend, and we will miss his wit and his Irish charm."

Even in his final months, Jordan remained active in the motorsport world, leading a consortium to purchase London Irish and helping orchestrate Adrian Newey’s lucrative move from Red Bull to Aston Martin.

Remembering those we lost in 2025

2025 has seen a series of notable losses, with Jordan’s passing following several others this year.

In February, the entertainment world was stunned by the death of two-time Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. The 95-year-old Hollywood legend and his 63-year-old wife were found lifeless in their home, leaving behind an enduring legacy in cinema.

Earlier this month, Baywatch star Pamela Bach was found dead. According to reports, it was a suicide.

Days later, Harry Potter and Doctor Who actor Simon Fisher-Becker also passed away at the age of 63.

Now, the world of motorsport mourns Eddie Jordan, whose legacy in F1, both as a team owner and a broadcaster, will be remembered for generations to come.