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Eddie Jordan, the charismatic former Formula 1 team owner and television pundit, has passed away at the age of 76. The Irishman, who had been battling an aggressive form of bladder and prostate cancer, died peacefully in Cape Town on March 20, 2025, surrounded by his family.
A statement from his family confirmed, "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Eddie Jordan OBE, the ex-Formula 1 team owner, TV pundit, and entrepreneur. He passed away peacefully with family by his side in Cape Town in the early hours of 20 March 2025."
Jordan was known for his flamboyant personality and deep passion for motorsport. He founded Jordan Grand Prix in 1991, a team that competed in F1 for 15 seasons, securing four race wins before being sold in 2005. His team famously gave seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher his F1 debut at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix. The team later evolved into what is now the Aston Martin Formula 1 team.
His impact on the sport extended beyond team ownership. Jordan played a pivotal role in managing legendary F1 designer Adrian Newey's transition from Red Bull to Aston Martin, a move he oversaw over the past 18 months. He also worked as a broadcaster for BBC and Channel 4, bringing his energetic analysis and deep insight to F1 coverage.
Outside motorsport, Jordan was involved in business and sports ventures, including leading a consortium that rescued London Irish Rugby Football Club from administration. He was also a former shareholder of Celtic Football Club.
Tributes poured in from across the motorsport world. Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali said, "We are deeply saddened to hear about the sudden loss of Eddie Jordan. 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."
Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell praised Jordan's contributions to F1, stating, "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."
Former F1 driver Carlos Sainz shared on X, "Extremely sad to learn that Eddie has passed away. A true icon and loved character of our sport. Passionate, loyal, and truly one of a kind. He will be dearly missed. R.I.P."
Jordan's family described him as someone who "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 tonnes of great memories to keep us smiling through our sorrow."
Eddie Jordan's legacy in motorsport and beyond will continue to be celebrated, as his influence on Formula 1 and the broader sports world remains undeniable.
