Four-time Paralympic gold-medalist and former Formula 1 driver Alex Zanardi has died at the age of 59.

Axar.az informs, citing ESPN, born in Bologna, Zanardi competed in Formula 1 for five seasons and achieved a best finish of sixth at the 1993 Brazilian Grand Prix before a major crash in 2001 resulted in both of his legs being amputated.

Zanardi recovered from his life-changing operation to become a Paralympic champion, firstly competing in the London Games in 2012 and claiming two gold medals in the para-cycling category before two more followed in Rio de Janeiro four years later.

“It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly yesterday evening, 1 May,” his family said. “Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

F1 president Stefano Domenicali said in a statement: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Alex Zanardi. He was truly an inspirational person, as a human and as an athlete.