Much-loved Formula One icon Eddie Jordan has passed away aged 76 after losing a brave battle with prostate cancer. The former driver, Formula One team owner and entrepreneur died on Thursday in South Africa, surrounded by his family, a spokesperson has confirmed.
Jordan had undergone chemotherapy to try and help combat the disease, but the cancer – which was described as “aggressive” – eventually got the better of him. And, during one of his final media appearances before passing away, the motorsport legend urged fans to “look after your body” by getting tested for cancer.
Speaking on the Formula For Success podcast alongside co-host David Coulthard, he said: “Go and get tested, because in life, you’ve got chances. We’ve kind of alluded to it over the shows, way back in March and April, I was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer, and then it spread into the spine and the pelvis, so it was quite aggressive.”
Referencing British cycling hero, Sir Chris Hoy, he continued: “We’ve all heard about our wonderful friend, Sir Chris Hoy, who’s an absolute megastar, and he is coming out and talking about illnesses like what I’ve got, but he’s a far younger man.”
Jordan pleaded: “Go and do it. Don’t be stupid. Don’t be shy. It’s not a shy thing. Look after your body, guys.”
A statement from Jordan’s family confirmed his passing on Thursday. It read: “Eddie passed away peacefully with family by his side in Cape Town in the early hours of 20th March 2025 at the age of 76, after battling with an aggressive form of prostate cancer for the past 12 months.”
Jordan, who enjoyed a modest career as a driver, ran his own Formula One team between 1991 and 2005, before appearing as a pundit on both Channel 4 and the BBC’s coverage. Following his death, figures from the world of Formula One paid tribute to the Irishman.
Reacting to the news, F1 chief executive 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. In this moment of sorrow, my thoughts and those of the entire Formula One family are with his family and loved ones.”
Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle wrote on social media: “RIP my friend. Condolences to each and every one of your lovely family. What a character. What a rock star. What a racer. So many drivers owe you so much, you gave us our chances and believed in us.”
Jake Humphrey added: “Utterly devastated. EJ has left us. Formula One won’t see the likes of Eddie ever again where a guy with a love for racing can hustle his way into the sport and end up winning races.”
