Former Formula 1 driver Andrea de Adamich has passed away at 84. The ex-McLaren and Ferrari racer participated in 34 World Championship Grand Prix races.
De Adamich’s F1 career concluded after a significant 10-car crash during the 1973 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, resulting in a broken ankle and other leg injuries.
Post-retirement, he transitioned into broadcasting, gaining popularity as a commentator and insightful TV expert willing to engage in on-air debates.
From 1978 to 2012, de Adamich hosted the TV show Grand Prix on Italia 1. In 2022, he was honored as a Commendatore of the Order of Merit, one of Italy’s highest civilian distinctions.
Born in Trieste, de Adamich began his successful career by winning the Italian Formula 3 championship in 1965, leading to a contract with Alfa Romeo. He later won the European Touring Car Championship in 1966 and 1967 before joining Ferrari in 1968.
Throughout his racing tenure with March, Surtees, and Brabham, de Adamich excelled in endurance racing, achieving victories in events like the 200 Miles of Buenos Aires in 1970 and the 1000 KM of Brands Hatch in England and the Six Hours of Watkins Glen in the USA in 1971.
Additionally, he clinched podium finishes in all four 1000km races he contested in 1974: Monza, Nürburgring, Imola, and Österreichring. De Adamich also competed twice in Le Mans, finishing fourth in 1972.
His contributions to television garnered admiration, with tributes flowing in following his demise. Fans expressed their sorrow online, acknowledging his professionalism and passion for the sport.
Formula 1 enthusiasts can enjoy live coverage of every practice, qualifier, and race through Sky’s Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle, which also includes access to around 100 TV channels, Netflix, and Discovery+.