Jake Humphrey was visibly emotional as he paid tribute to Eddie Jordan, a legendary figure in the world of Formula 1, who passed away at the age of 76 on March 20, 2025. The news was announced by his family, revealing that Jordan had succumbed after a year-long battle with prostate cancer, passing peacefully in Cape Town with his loved ones by his side.
A former driver and the founder of Jordan Grand Prix, Eddie Jordan made a significant impact in motorsport over his remarkable career. He not only owned his own F1 team but also left a lasting legacy as a broadcaster with the BBC, Channel 4, and Sky Sports. Throughout his 14-year ownership of the Jordan Formula 1 team, he celebrated five Grand Prix victories, making his mark in a fiercely competitive sport.
Humphrey, who worked alongside Jordan on the BBC's F1 coverage from 2009 to 2012, shared a close and heartfelt friendship with the iconic team owner. In a tribute aired on BBC Radio 5 Live, the passion in Humphrey’s voice captured the profound connection they had.”He won races, which was remarkable, but more important than that, he won hearts,” Humphrey expressed during the heartfelt segment. This reflection underscores Jordan's unique blend of professionalism and relatability that endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.
Humphrey reminisced about a pivotal moment in his career when he made the difficult decision to leave F1 broadcasting. He recalled how Jordan, with his innate understanding, had pulled him aside, saying, “I know why you're doing this; you want to be with your kids.” At the time, Humphrey's wife was pregnant, a factor that weighed heavily on his decision. “I said, ‘You're absolutely right,’” Humphrey reflected, emphasizing how Jordan was the only person in the world of Formula 1 who truly understood his motivations.
As he shared personal anecdotes during his tribute, Humphrey couldn’t hold back his emotions. He recounted a recent text message he sent to Jordan after attending a Formula 1 race in Austin. “I said, ‘The sound, the smell, and the heat today reminded me of our days together traveling the world.’ I love you brother,” he expressed, revealing how deep their bond ran. “Those were the greatest four years of my career and the impact you had on me was massive. My ambition and drive came from seeing what you did and how you did it.”
Humphrey continued to delicately articulate Jordan’s lasting influence, recognizing him as a beacon in the often tumultuous world of motorsport. “Most importantly, you were the person who made me truly realize that it’s family first every time.” This powerful sentiment highlights the balance that Jordan struck between professional success and personal values, a lesson that resonated deeply with Humphrey.
Moreover, during this emotional tribute, Humphrey recounted a final meal shared with Jordan and his sons a few months prior to his passing. “It was special,” he recalled, indicative of the warmth and affection that characterized their friendship. He mentioned how they discussed plans for a last interview together, a notion that now hangs heavy with the weight of Jordan’s absence. “Sadly that will never happen,” he said, reflecting a sense of loss not just for himself, but for the entire Formula 1 community.
In his Instagram post, Humphrey shared a touching tribute alongside a montage of memories, stating the profound loss felt not just personally, but across the sport. “Eddie lit up a room whenever he entered it. That is a lesson for us all – be the light in the room,” he wrote, illustrating how Jordan's vibrant personality could elevate spirits. He lauded Jordan’s family, mentioning how his children and wife Marie embody his generous spirit, with Marie identified as one of the strongest women he has ever met.
As tributes pour in from fans, colleagues, and competitors alike, it’s clear that Eddie Jordan leaves behind a powerful legacy in the world of motorsport. His larger-than-life persona and heartfelt approach to relationships transformed not just the sport but the people within it. Jake Humphrey's tribute serves as a testimony to the nuanced impact Jordan had not only through his professional accomplishments but through his compassionate nature.
With Jordan's passing, the world feels a little dimmer, with Humphrey poignantly noting, “One of the 3 Amigos is gone. The world seems a little less bright this morning.” As the motorsport community reflects on his remarkable journey, it is evident that Eddie Jordan's influence will continue to inspire future generations, both on and off the track.
His indomitable spirit, lessons on family, and commitment to a life well-lived will echo in the hearts of those who loved him and who, like Humphrey, have been profoundly affected by his presence. Eddie Jordan's legacy will live on in the countless stories shared, the races won, and the friendships forged in the fast-paced world of Formula 1.
