Eddie Jordan, the flamboyant former Formula 1 team owner and television pundit, has died aged 76.
The Irishman, who had aggressive prostate cancer, died in the early hours of Thursday morning.
A statement from his family said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Eddie Jordan OBE, the ex-Formula 1 team owner, TV pundit and entrepreneur.
Eddie Jordan, the charismatic and outspoken former Formula 1 team owner and broadcaster, passed away peacefully in the early hours of March 20, 2025, in Cape Town, surrounded by his family.
A towering figure in the world of motorsport, Jordan carved out a remarkable career as an independent team owner, achieving success against the odds. His eponymous team, Jordan Grand Prix, made its debut in 1991 and quickly became a beloved presence on the F1 grid, blending competitive ambition with a rock-and-roll spirit. Over its 15-year history, the team secured four grand prix victories and briefly contended for the drivers’ championship in 1999 before its fortunes waned, leading to its sale in 2005.
Beyond the paddock, Jordan transitioned seamlessly into television punditry, first with BBC Sport and later with Channel 4. His sharp insights, fearless opinions, and knack for breaking major news stories made him a standout voice in F1 broadcasting.
A Legacy of Influence and Charisma
Damon Hill, the 1996 world champion who secured Jordan’s first F1 victory in 1998, paid tribute, telling BBC Sport: “Eddie was a huge influence on me and on so many in motorsport and beyond. There will never be another like him.”
In a heartfelt statement, Jordan’s family reflected on his boundless energy and enduring impact:
“He was working until the very end, still sharing his ambitions for London Irish Rugby Football Club on St. Patrick’s Day, just days before his passing. Eddie and Jordan Grand Prix brought a unique blend of fun, flair, and fierce competition to F1, consistently punching above their weight.”
“Many of today’s most successful F1 drivers owe their career breakthroughs to Eddie. He had an uncanny eye for talent, giving opportunities to future world champions like Michael Schumacher and Damon Hill.”
“EJ was a force of nature—his charisma, energy, and Irish charm lit up every room he entered. His absence leaves a huge void, but he leaves us with a lifetime of incredible memories that will keep us smiling through our sorrow.”
Hill further described Jordan as “gregarious and irreverent,” adding: “There isn’t a single person in the sport who hasn’t been positively impacted by Eddie. He gave so much to charity, lived life to the fullest, and energized everyone around him. His loss is immeasurable.”
A Protagonist of His Era
Renowned for his flamboyant personality and celebrity friendships, Jordan was more than just a team owner—he was a showman. A keen musician, he played drums in his band, Eddie & The Robbers, embodying his reputation as one of motorsport’s most colorful figures.
His eye for talent was legendary. Jordan famously gave Schumacher his F1 debut at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix before the young German was swiftly snatched up by Benetton. Despite financial struggles in the mid-1990s, Jordan struck a crucial sponsorship deal with Benson & Hedges, propelling the team into the sport’s upper echelons. The breakthrough came in 1998, when Hill clinched Jordan’s maiden victory in a chaotic, rain-soaked Belgian Grand Prix. The following year, Heinz-Harald Frentzen mounted an unexpected title challenge, securing two wins. Jordan’s final triumph came courtesy of Giancarlo Fisichella at the 2003 Brazilian Grand Prix—a chaotic race initially awarded to Kimi Räikkönen before Jordan successfully contested the result.
After selling his team in 2005, Jordan remained an influential figure in F1. Most recently, he played a pivotal role in brokering the high-profile move of design guru Adrian Newey to Aston Martin, a testament to his enduring connections in the sport.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed deep sorrow, saying: “Eddie Jordan was a true character—his energy was infectious, and his brilliance was undeniable. He was a defining figure of his era in F1, and his absence will be deeply felt. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”
Eddie Jordan’s legacy extends far beyond the racetrack. He was a pioneer, a mentor, a maverick, and above all, an unforgettable presence in the world of motorsport.
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