Legendary F1 Team Owner and TV Personality Eddie Jordan Passes Away at 76

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      Eddie Jordan, the owner of a Formula 1 team and more recently a TV commentator, has passed away at the age of 76 after a battle with an aggressive form of cancer. The family shared a statement on Thursday morning:

      “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Eddie Jordan OBE, the former Formula 1 team owner, TV analyst, and entrepreneur,” the statement said. “He peacefully passed away with family by his side in Cape Town in the early hours of March 20, 2025, at 76, after a year-long struggle with aggressive prostate cancer.

      “He continued to work until the end, discussing his aspirations for London Irish Rugby Football Club, where he had recently taken on the role of Patron, on St. Patrick’s Day.

      “EJ brought immense charisma, energy, and Irish charm wherever he went. His absence creates a significant void in our lives. Many will miss him, but he leaves us with countless wonderful memories to comfort us in our grief.”

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      The joyful Irishman is remembered for his many notable achievements as a racing driver, team owner, talent scout, and later as a vocal commentator on various aspects of the sport and its key figures. Unlike many racing personalities who often express their opinions on current events in a charged manner, Jordan’s insights were never petulant or disrespectful.

      He famously provided Michael Schumacher the opportunity to enter F1 at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix, marking the beginning of a historic career for the German. This was a bold decision for both individuals at that time, as Jordan had just transitioned from team ownership in British and European Formula 3, and International Formula 3000 to F1, where he had worked with many future F1 stars in lower categories, including Stefan Johansson and Martin Brundle.

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      In the late 1980s and early 1990s, he was also involved in driver management, constantly maneuvering contracts for fellow Irish drivers Eddie Irvine, Martin Donnelly, and fan-favorite Jean Alesi. Most recently, he served as the manager and negotiator for renowned car designer Adrian Newey during his separation from Red Bull.

      Among Jordan’s notable achievements was owning his own F1 team, Jordan Grand Prix, during the 1990s and 2000s, particularly the successful years under the Buzzin’ Hornets banner. The Benson & Hedges-liveried cars, still regarded as some of the most visually appealing in F1 history, were driven by several great talents, including Ralf Schumacher, Damon Hill, Heinz-Harald Frentzen, Takuma Sato, Jarno Trulli, and Giancarlo Fisichella. He sold the team in 2005, which eventually transformed into the current Aston Martin Racing.

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      In recent years, he launched a podcast titled Formula for Success, where he and F1 veteran David Coulthard shared a wealth of stories from their time in the sport. It comes highly recommended for those who haven’t had a chance to listen.

      Last December, Jordan revealed he was battling “quite aggressive” cancer affecting “the bladder and prostate with spread to his spine and pelvis,” as reported by AP. Following his diagnosis, he frequently emphasized the importance of health check-ups and their critical role in people's lives.

      Godspeed, EJ.

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