F1 mourns the loss of Eddie Jordan, a charismatic pioneer who shaped the sport with his bold vision

The world of Formula One is in mourning following the passing of Eddie Jordan, the larger-than-life team owner who revolutionised the sport with his fearless approach and keen eye for talent. The 76-year-old Irishman, diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer in December, died peacefully at his home in Cape Town, his family confirmed on Thursday.

Jordan, affectionately known as “EJ”, was a dynamic force in F1, renowned for his charisma, sharp business acumen, and ability to nurture young drivers. His independent Jordan Grand Prix team launched against all odds, achieved remarkable success—including four Grand Prix victories—and famously gave Michael Schumacher his first shot in Formula One.

In a heartfelt statement, his family paid tribute to his infectious energy and spirit.

“EJ brought an abundance of charisma, energy, and Irish charm everywhere he went. We all have a huge hole missing without his presence. He will be missed by so many people, but he leaves us with tons of great memories to keep us smiling through our sorrow.”

Damon Hill, who secured Jordan’s first F1 win at Spa in 1998, described him as a legend unlike any other.

“Eddie was chaotic and a genius at the same time. He had the energy of 100 men. He created so much joy and had a massive heart. There will only ever be one EJ,” Hill said.

Jordan’s career in motorsport began behind the wheel, winning the Irish Kart Championship in 1971. However, after a crash in Formula Three in 1976, he pivoted to team ownership. He launched Eddie Jordan Racing, achieving success in Formula 3 and Formula 3000, where he mentored future stars like Jean Alesi, Martin Brundle, Eddie Irvine, and Johnny Herbert.

His relentless drive saw him take the ultimate leap in 1991, founding the Jordan Grand Prix. Despite financial struggles, his team punched above its weight, delivering standout performances and producing some of F1’s most unforgettable moments.

One of Jordan’s most famous decisions was in 1991 when he gave Michael Schumacher his first F1 seat at the Belgian Grand Prix. The young German impressed immediately, but in a ruthless display of F1’s politics, Benetton poached him before Jordan could secure his future.

Undeterred, Jordan continued to push forward, securing a major sponsorship deal with Benson & Hedges in 1996, which propelled the team to greater heights. Two years later, Damon Hill led Jordan to its first-ever Grand Prix victory in a chaotic wet race at Spa-Francorchamps, finishing 1-2 with Ralf Schumacher.

The team’s peak came in 1999 when Heinz-Harald Frentzen won two races and Jordan Grand Prix finished third in the Constructors’ Championship—an incredible feat for an independent team battling F1’s financial giants.

However, as costs soared, Jordan struggled to keep up with the major manufacturers. In 2005, he made the difficult decision to sell his team for $60 million, marking the end of an era. The outfit would go through multiple transformations—from Midland to Spyker, then Force India and Racing Point, before becoming Aston Martin in 2021.

Formula One chief Stefano Domenicali led the tributes, praising Jordan’s lasting impact.

“With his inexhaustible energy, he always knew how to make people smile, remaining genuine and brilliant at all times. Eddie has been a protagonist of an era of F1, and he will be deeply missed.”

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner also honoured his legacy.

“Eddie was a hugely colourful character… His advice to me in 1991? ‘Get a good sponsor … Welcome to the Piranha Club.’ Formula One has lost a legend.”

Even after leaving team ownership, Jordan remained a key figure in the sport, becoming a popular BBC and Channel 4 pundit, where his no-nonsense opinions and infectious enthusiasm won over fans. In recent years, he also managed Adrian Newey, securing the legendary designer’s high-profile move to Aston Martin.

The FIA summed up the loss best:

“Eddie Jordan was a legend of Formula One. His contribution to global motorsport was invaluable. He will always be remembered as a great sportsman and passionate ambassador for Formula One.”

The world of motorsport has lost one of its most iconic figures, but Eddie Jordan’s spirit, audacity, and love for racing will live on forever.