Eddie Jordan, the flamboyant former Formula 1 team owner and beloved television pundit, has died at the age of 76. The Irish businessman, who had a home and spent significant time in Monaco, died from an aggressive form of prostate cancer in the early hours of Thursday in Cape Town, surrounded by family.
Eddie Jordan, the Dublin-born businessman who came from humble beginnings to rise to the heights in the Formula 1 world, had died from complications stemming from prostate cancer. He was 76.
Jordan was known for his larger-than-life personality, his sharp insights into Formula 1, and his deep ties to the racing world. He was also a passionate cyclist. He could be spotted riding through the streets of Monaco, where he maintained a residence and where his daughter continues to live. His strong connection to the Principality also made him a familiar figure in the F1 community that thrives here.
On Thursday 20th March, his family released a statement confirming his passing, saying, “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.”
“He was working until the last, having communicated on St Patrick’s Day, about his ambitions for London Irish Rugby Football Club, of which he had recently become Patron.”
His family added: “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.”
Jordan rose to prominence in the early 1990s as the founder of Jordan Grand Prix, a fiercely independent Formula 1 team that made its debut in 1991. Known for his audacity and keen eye for talent, he famously gave Michael Schumacher his F1 debut at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix, a moment that changed the course of motorsport history. His team went on to claim four race victories, with their most memorable triumph coming at the rain-soaked 1998 Belgian Grand Prix, where Damon Hill secured Jordan’s first win.
Despite his team’s successes, financial struggles in the competitive world of F1 led Jordan to sell his outfit in 2005. The team evolved into several iterations over the years, eventually becoming today’s Aston Martin F1 Team. Jordan remained an influential figure in the paddock, with his last major involvement in the sport being his role in brokering a high-profile deal for design legend Adrian Newey to join Aston Martin this year.
Outside the racing world, Jordan was a charismatic television pundit, bringing his unfiltered, often mischievous analysis to audiences. His ability to blend deep technical knowledge with humour made him a fan favourite.
Remembered for his passion for music
His flair for showbiz came out in other ways, as well. He famously played the drums in his band, Eddie & The Robbers, who for many years were summertime regulars at the beachside hot spot Anjuna in Eze-sur-Mer.
In 2012, he was awarded an honorary OBE for his contributions to motorsport and his extensive charity work, which included raising millions for CLIC Sargent, a children’s cancer charity, and supporting the Amber Foundation for vulnerable youth.
Tributes have been pouring in for the well-known and beloved figure in Monaco. His good friend Mike Powers shared with Monaco Life, “He was a fun-loving bon vivant who will never be forgotten.”
Eddie Jordan is survived by his wife Marie and their children, fashion designer Zoe, Miki, Zak, and Kyle. His passing leaves a significant void in the world of motorsport, but his legacy as an established team boss, an engaging broadcaster, and a larger-than-life character will endure.
Monaco Life extends heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
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Photo of Eddie Jordan sourced from Instagram