A sudden hush befell the motorsport universe as the devastating news of Eddie Jordan’s demise surfaced. The motorsport titan, who had been valiantly battling aggressive prostate cancer, breathed his last on the morning of March 20, 2025. This heartbreaking development was confirmed by the Jordan family, who stated, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Eddie Jordan OBE, an iconic ex-Formula 1 team owner, TV pundit, and entrepreneur. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones in Cape Town.”
Eddie Jordan was not just an individual but an influence who left an indelible impact on numerous personnel in the motorsport fraternity and beyond. “There will never be another like him,” expressed Damon Hill, the 1996 Formula 1 world champion. Hill is a part of the illustrious list of motorsport champions who owe their first break to Jordan. This list is graced by none other than seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, who got his first Formula 1 taste from Eddie Jordan before shifting to Benetton in Italy.
One cannot forget the memorable day in 1998 at the Belgian Grand Prix when Jordan celebrated Damon Hill’s first team win with unbridled joy. His ecstatic sprint around the paddock, followed by Ralf Schumacher’s second-place finish, created a 1-2 victory for the team and an unforgettable sight in Formula 1 history.
Jordan was not just known for providing fresh talent with a platform at the pinnacle of motorsports. His unique flair, unusual car presentations, and candid views were the breath of fresh air that Formula 1 needed. His loss was felt by many, with condolences pouring in from high-profile names such as Michael Schumacher, the McLaren F1 team, the Mercedes team, Valtteri Bottas, and many more.
The indomitable Eddie Jordan breathed his last at 76, but his legacy continues to inspire. One such individual deeply affected by Jordan’s passing is the well-known driver and team-owner, Brad Keselowski. He expressed his grief and admiration for Jordan on X (previously known as Twitter), stating, “What a legend. Was thinking about him earlier this week, wondering how he did everything he did… certainly to the fullest #Godspeed.”
Eddie Jordan, with his independent team, was a formidable force in the motorsport world, dominated by legacy teams and corporations. His audacious approach and ability to voice his controversial opinions brought a rock-and-roll flavor to the world that was otherwise filled with suits and ties.
Brad Keselowski is a notable name in the NASCAR circuit, both as a driver and a team owner. His journey as a team owner began in 2007 when he established Brad Keselowski Racing (BKR). Known for nurturing young talents like Tyler Reddick, Ryan Blaney, Ross Chastain, Chase Briscoe, and many more, BKR made its mark in the NASCAR Truck Series. However, after a decade of racing, Keselowski decided to close the team in 2017.
Despite the setback, Keselowski, akin to Jordan, bounced back for his second act. In 2022, he initiated his second innings as a team owner by becoming a co-owner of Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing. As he navigates his second stint as a team owner and strives to build his brand, the audacious spirit, charm, and uplifting influence of Eddie Jordan serve as a beacon for Keselowski.
Only the sands of time can reveal if Keselowski will tap into his ‘inner Jordan’, etching his name alongside NASCAR’s most successful team owners like Rick Hendrick, Joe Gibbs, and Roger Penske. Regardless, the sudden loss of the racing legend, Eddie Jordan, has left a void in the motorsport realm that will be challenging to fill.