Eddie Jordan, former F1 team principal and co-owner of London Irish rugby club, has died at 76 after battling aggressive cancer. He is remembered for his charisma and impact on motorsport, having founded Jordan Grand Prix and facilitated breakthroughs for various drivers. His family and Formula One community mourn his loss, celebrating his legacy.
Eddie Jordan, the former Formula One team principal and co-owner of London Irish rugby club, passed away at the age of 76. He had previously shared that he was undergoing treatment for aggressive bladder and prostate cancer, but he had expressed optimism about overcoming it. Unfortunately, reports indicate that the cancer returned aggressively, leading to his death in South Africa, where he spent part of his year.
The Jordan family released a heartfelt statement praising Eddie’s charismatic character, stating, “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 tonnes of great memories to keep us smiling through our sorrow.”
Formula One’s chief executive, Stefano Domenicali, expressed deep sorrow over Jordan’s sudden passing, recognizing his vibrant spirit and significant impact on the sport. Domenicali remarked, “Eddie has been a protagonist of an era of F1 and he will be deeply missed. My thoughts and those of the entire Formula One family are with his family and loved ones.”
Eddie Jordan founded Jordan Grand Prix in 1991, quickly becoming a prominent figure in the paddock. The team achieved notable success, highlighted by their remarkable performance at the Belgian Grand Prix in 1998, where drivers Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher secured first and second places. In addition, the team finished third in the championship in 1999 under driver Heinz-Harald Frentzen.
However, as the 2000s approached, Jordan’s team began to wane after losing key partnerships and sponsors, ultimately being bought out by Midland in 2005. Born in Dublin in 1948, Jordan continued to influence Formula One as a pundit on television and through his podcast, “Formula For Success,” alongside former driver David Coulthard.
Known for his larger-than-life persona, Jordan owned residences in various cities, including Cape Town and London, as well as a yacht in Monaco. He recently facilitated Adrian Newey’s transition from Red Bull to Aston Martin, demonstrating his continued engagement with the sport.
Jordan led a consortium that acquired London Irish during a turbulent period for the club last month. His family announced he passed peacefully in Cape Town on March 20, 2025, having worked until the end on various projects, including his role as patron of London Irish Rugby Club.
Eddie Jordan’s passing marks the loss of an influential figure in both Formula One and rugby union. His vibrant personality and remarkable contributions to motorsport have left a legacy that will be remembered by fans and peers alike. The Jordan family’s reflections illustrate the profound impact he made throughout his life, and he will be dearly missed.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
