Former F1 driver Alex Zanardi who raced during the 1990s, is currently being treated at a hospital at Siena after losing control on his bicycle.
The 53-year old Alex Zanardi had suffered from a horrific accident in 2001, which resulted in him getting both his legs amputated. Another serious accident today has left fans and well-wishers praying for his life.
The Italian daily Gazzetta Dello Sport report that the Italian lost control of his handbike on a downhill section, before changing direction into oncoming traffic.
He was put on a helicopter and flown to Siena, a city in Italy. Local police have confirmed he was involved in a “serious accident” with a “heavy vehicle”, as per The Independent
A police official in Montepulciano confirmed to Associated Press that it was Zanardi, and they believe he is alive.
A versatile sportsperson with a remarkable career
Alex Zanardi has had a remarkable storyline in sports. He raced in F1 from 1991-1994, and again in 1999. He had stints with Jordan, Minardi, Lotus and Williams.
In 2000, he switched to CART racing in the United States. He suffered a horrific crash at the EuroSpeedway Lausitz race track in 2001, which resulted in him losing both his legs. The “Lausitzring crash” was the end of his racing career. He was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2013.
Most recently, he was competing in the Paralympic Games, highlighting his never-say-die-attitude. He competed in the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, winning 4 gold and 2 silver medals.
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After this news broke out, messages have started pouring in from all quarters. Alfa Romeo F1 driver Antonio Giovinazzi posted the praying emoji along with the message: “Forza Alex!”
