Zanardi returned to motorsport after the crash and won the World Touring Car Championship four times for BMW between 2005 and 2009.
In addition to his handcycling success at the Paralympics, he became a 12-time world champion and won the men’s paracycling event at the 2011 New York Marathon.
Bologna-born Zanardi suffered serious head injuries during a road race in Tuscany in 2020 when he lost control of his handbike and collided with an oncoming truck.
Formula 1 governing body, the FIA, said:, external Zanardi’s “journey from a life-changing accident to becoming a Paralympic gold medalist has made him one of the most respected competitors in sport and an enduring symbol of courage and determination.”
F1 observed a minute’s silence in Zanardi’s memory before the start of Saturday’s sprint race at the Miami Grand Prix.
Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff said Zanardi “showed that even when life challenges you, it doesn’t have to define you. The adversity can be overcome with humility, humor and optimism.”
“His example will continue to serve as an inspiration and reminder of what true courage is,” Wolff added.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said:, external Her country lost “a great champion and an extraordinary person who could turn every trial of life into a lesson of courage, strength and dignity.”
She added: “Alex Zanardi knew how to get back in the game every time, facing even the toughest challenges with determination, clarity and truly outstanding mentality.
“Through his accomplishments in sport, his example and his humanity, he gave us all more than victory. He gave us hope, pride and the strength to never give up.”
“On behalf of myself and the government, I extend our sincere thoughts and heartfelt sympathies to his family and all who loved him.
“Thank you for everything, Alex.”
Zanardi won the H4 time trial and H4 road race at London 2012 and was selected as the Italian team’s flagbearer for the closing ceremony.
At the 2016 Rio Olympics, he won gold medals in the H5 time trial and relay.
The International Paralympic Committee called Zanardi “a pioneer, icon and legend of the Paralympic movement.”
“His performance was truly out of this world, brought new fans to the Olympics and showed the world that anything is possible.”
“The iconic photo of him lifting his handcycle overhead in victory at the London 2012 Olympic Games will go down in history as one of the great sporting images. He will be remembered forever.
“Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this difficult time.”
Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali described Zanardi as “an inspiration as a person and an athlete”.
“He faced challenges that could have stopped anyone, but he always smiled and continued to look ahead with a stubborn determination that is an inspiration to us all,” Domenicali added.
“His loss is deeply felt, but his legacy remains strong.”
