Shanghai: Eddie Jordan, the former Formula 1 team owner and renowned media personality, has passed away at the age of 76, his family confirmed.

Jordan had been battling aggressive bladder and prostate cancer, which had spread to his spine and pelvis. He died peacefully with his family by his side in Cape Town early on Thursday, according to a family statement released by rugby club London Irish, where Jordan was a patron.

“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,” the statement read.

Jordan made a significant mark on Formula 1 through his Jordan Grand Prix team, which competed in F1 from 1991 until 2005. His team was known for its bold approach, competitive spirit, and distinctive livery. After selling the team in 2005, Jordan became a popular television pundit, known for his humour, strong opinions, and flamboyant dress sense.

F1 president and chief executive Stefano Domenicali paid tribute, saying, “Eddie Jordan was a protagonist of an era of F1 and he will be deeply missed. With his inexhaustible energy, he always knew how to make people smile, remaining genuine and brilliant at all times.”

Jordan played a crucial role in launching the career of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher. In 1991, Schumacher made his F1 debut with Jordan after regular driver Bertrand Gachot was jailed for assaulting a London taxi driver. Although Schumacher only raced once for Jordan before moving to Benetton, Jordan’s role in his early career remains significant.

Flavio Briatore, former Benetton team principal and a close friend of Jordan, expressed his sadness: “I am deeply saddened by the loss of Eddie Jordan. Eddie was a great individual, who for decades always brought a smile to the entire F1 paddock. I have fond memories of the time spent on and off the track with Eddie, and his presence across the entire F1 world will be greatly missed.”

Jordan’s team achieved four race victories before he sold the outfit in 2005. Over the years, the team underwent several ownership and name changes and currently competes as Aston Martin.

Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell praised Jordan’s legacy: “Eddie Jordan was one of the all-time motorsport greats. He was a one-off, a wonderful human being, and a charismatic leader who founded this team and took it to F1 in 1991. His vision laid the foundations for us, and he leaves a lasting legacy for the entire motorsport community.”

Beyond his team ownership, Jordan was also known for managing car design legend Adrian Newey when Newey moved from Red Bull to Aston Martin last year.

Jordan had openly shared his cancer diagnosis last year, using the opportunity to urge others to prioritise their health. “This is a little message to everybody listening to this, don’t waste or put it off. Go and get tested, because in life you have got chances. Go and do it. Don’t be stupid. Don’t be shy. Look after your body, guys,” he advised on his podcast.

Eddie Jordan leaves behind a legacy of passion, resilience, and innovation in the world of motorsport, remembered fondly by fans, colleagues, and the wider F1 community.