Eddie Jordan, a former driver who became a successful F1 team principal, founded Jordan Grand Prix in 1991. He introduced Michael Schumacher to F1 and led his team to notable successes, including a victory at the Belgian Grand Prix in 1998. Despite later challenges, he built a substantial fortune and received an OBE. Jordan was diagnosed with aggressive cancer in December 2024, and is survived by his wife and four children.
Eddie Jordan, a notable figure in motorsport, discovered his passion during a holiday in Jersey, later winning the Irish karting championship in 1971. Following this success, he moved on to compete in Formula 3 (F3) and Formula 2 (F2) championships. As the 1970s ended, he transitioned from a driver to a team owner, forming his own racing team that included prominent drivers like Martin Brundle, who was a contender in F3 against Ayrton Senna.
In 1991, Jordan established the Jordan Grand Prix, marking his entry into Formula One (F1). His defining moment came during the Belgian Grand Prix that year, where he introduced Michael Schumacher—who would eventually win seven world championships—after replacing Bertrand Gachot. Jordan’s team achieved its peak success in 1998, with Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher finishing in first and second places at Spa-Francorchamps.
Jordan’s significant achievements continued as Heinz-Harald Frentzen claimed third in the drivers’ championship the following season. However, the team’s fortunes fluctuated due to engine changes and sponsorship reductions. They celebrated a final victory in 2003 when Giancarlo Fisichella triumphed at the Brazil GP. In 2005, Jordan sold the team after recording five victories and enduring a challenging operational period.
The team, now rebranded as Aston Martin, operates from the same Silverstone base. Jordan, known for his charismatic presence, remained active in F1 as a commentator and analyst. His diverse interests included ownership stakes in Celtic Football Club, racehorses, and hobbies like golf and sailing. By 2023, he amassed an estimated fortune of $600 million through investments across various sectors including oil and real estate.
In 2012, he was honored with an OBE for his contributions to charity. Tragically, in December 2024, Jordan announced his diagnosis of aggressive prostate and bladder cancer. Born on March 30, 1948, in Dublin, he is survived by his wife Marie, a former basketball player, and four children.
Eddie Jordan’s journey in motorsport is marked by passion, entrepreneurial spirit, and notable successes. He transformed from a driver into a successful team owner who introduced Michael Schumacher to F1. Despite facing challenges and a decline in team performance, his legacy continues as Aston Martin today. Jordan’s business ventures and charitable contributions illustrate his multifaceted life, though he now battles serious health issues. His enduring spirit and contributions to motorsport remain significant.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
