Eddie Jordan, the former Formula One team owner and team principal, has sadly passed away at the age of 76. The motorsport community is mourning the loss of the colorful Irishman, who left an indelible mark on the sport.
A family statement confirmed that "Eddie passed away peacefully with family by his side in Cape Town in the early hours of 20th March 2025, after battling with an aggressive form of prostate cancer for the past 12 months." Jordan was often affectionately known as "EJ," and his humor, energy, and distinctive style made him a beloved figure both on and off the track.
Many fans will remember him as the engaging personality from the Formula For Success podcast, which he co-hosted with his dear friend and former Formula One racer David Coulthard. Yet, Jordan was much more than a media personality; he was the founder of Jordan Grand Prix, where he gave many talented drivers their start.
Jordan made his debut in Formula One in 1991 and was notably the one who gave Michael Schumacher his first race, which took place during the Belgian Grand Prix. Schumacher qualified impressively at P7 and soon after was signed by the Benetton team principal, Flavio Briatore, a move that began a legendary career. Jordan, who had taken over the racing team in lower-level series before reaching F1, was known for his adventurous spirit and strong opinions.
During the mid-90s, Jordan Grand Prix was seen as a serious competitor within the sport, consistently challenging the likes of McLaren, Ferrari, and Williams; their very last Grand Prix win came in 2003. After years of racing, the team faced challenges and was ultimately sold to the Midland Group in 2005, becoming MF1, and later evolving through several owners, finally becoming Aston Martin.
Jordan was never shy about discussing his health—when he revealed his cancer diagnosis, he utilized his platform to encourage the public to pursue health screenings. In his own words, he urged fans, "Go and get tested, because in life you have got chances. Go and do it. Don’t be stupid. Don’t be shy. Look after your body, guys." This gracious reflection shows his strength and desire to help others even while facing his condition.
The tributes from his contemporaries have been heartfelt, expressing both sadness and appreciation for his vibrant presence in motorsport. Flavio Briatore articulated deep sorrow, saying, "I am deeply saddened by the loss of Eddie Jordan. Eddie was a great individual, who for decades always brought a smile to the entire F1 paddock." F1 president Stefano Domenicali also shared his sentiments, noting, "With his inexhaustible energy he always knew how to make people smile, remaining genuine and brilliant at all times."
Jordan's influence reached beyond just driving; his team fostered some of the most renowned drivers and secured significant wins, with accolades such as Damon Hill's 1998 victory, which gave Jordan his first Grand Prix win in a wet race. Future champions, including Rubens Barrichello and Heinz-Harald Frentzen, also earned their stripes under his leadership.
As the Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell noted poignantly, "Eddie Jordan was one of the all-time motorsport greats. He was a one-off, a wonderful human being, and a charismatic leader who founded this team and took it to F1 in 1991. His vision laid the foundations for us and he leaves a lasting legacy for the entire motorsport community."
While the motorsport industry grapples with the loss of such a charismatic leader, Eddie Jordan’s legacy will continue to be felt in the hearts of those he inspired. His ability to connect with fans and bring excitement to the sport is unmatched. As the dedicated community remembers his contributions and honors his memory, the bright and enduring spirit of Eddie Jordan lives on in the fast lanes of Formula One.
