The Formula 1 paddock bid farewell to former team boss Eddie Jordan on Thursday. The former team owner had been battling prostate cancer and passed away in Cape Town, South Africa, surrounded by his family. Jordan was a popular figure within the sport and until recently still regularly shared his sharp analyses. The sport has lost a flamboyant and charismatic figure.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Eddie Jordan,” wrote Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali on social media Thursday. “With his inexhaustible energy, he always managed to put a smile on people’s faces and remained sincere. Eddie was a protagonist of an important era in Formula 1, and we will miss him terribly.”
Red Bull team boss Christian Horner also shared his condolences on social media. “Eddie Jordan was a hugely colorful figure,” he wrote. “I first met him in 1991, when he had just completed his first year in Formula 1. His advice? ‘Get a good sponsor and welcome to the Piranha Club!’ Once I got into the sport, I was fortunate that our careers somewhat overlapped. He gradually focused on media activities, where he was always full of energy – always fun to work with. Formula 1 has lost a legend, and we will miss his humor and Irish charm.”
‘What a Rockstar’
Alpine senior advisor Flavio Briatore, who as former team boss at Benetton often competed with Eddie Jordan, also shared his sorrow. “I am deeply saddened by this loss,” the Italian responded. “He was a wonderful person who brought smiles to the entire paddock for decades. I have fond memories of the time we spent together. The Formula 1 world will greatly miss his presence.”
“Rest in peace, my friend,” added former driver and commentator Martin Brundle. The Brit drove for Jordan Grand Prix for one season in 1996 before hanging up his racing suit. “Condolences to everyone in your dear family. What a character, what a rockstar, what a racer. So many drivers owe their careers to you, you gave us opportunities and believed in us.”
‘Sociable, Bold, and Crazy’
Damon Hill was also once active for Eddie Jordan’s team. Between 1998 and 1999, he drove two seasons in the yellow car and also scored the first race victory for the Irish team. “We are all very sad and shocked,” he responded. “We knew Eddie was fighting cancer, but unfortunately, he lost the battle. My thoughts go out to his family, wonderful people. He had a huge influence on me and many others in motorsport. Jordan was sociable, he was bold, he was crazy. He didn’t waste a second of his life and always gave everyone energy. His passing is a huge loss.”
From the current generation of Formula 1 drivers, Carlos Sainz Jr was the first to respond to the loss of Eddie Jordan. “It’s very sad to hear that he has passed away,” the Spaniard said. “He was a true friend and a charismatic person within this world.”
