sports

Alex Zanardi, former F1 driver and Paralympian, dies at 59

Alex Zanardi, the Italian former Formula 1 driver who survived a 2001 accident that cost him both legs, died in 2026 at the age of 59.

Zanardi, known as the "Phoenix" for his comeback, won four gold and two silver medals in handbike events at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Paralympic Games. His triumphs, including a solo‑handed gold at Brands Hatch, inspired millions worldwide. tbzikra.org