The former Formula One supremo, Bernie Ecclestone, has revealed that he will not be attending the funeral of F1 legend Eddie Jordan, who recently passed away at the age of 76.
Eddie Jordan’s Legacy in Formula One
Eddie Jordan, a revered figure in the world of Formula One, passed away peacefully on Thursday, surrounded by family in South Africa. Jordan had been battling prostate cancer and had undergone chemotherapy, but ultimately succumbed to the disease.
Jordan was not only a former race car driver but also the founder and owner of the Jordan Grand Prix team. After leaving the competitive scene, he transitioned into punditry, becoming a prominent figure on both Channel 4 and the BBC’s F1 coverage. Widely respected and admired, Jordan left an indelible mark on the sport and was regarded as one of its most beloved personalities.
Bernie Ecclestone Shares His Thoughts
Despite their close friendship, Bernie Ecclestone has made it clear that he will not be attending Jordan’s funeral. Speaking to the Daily Mail, Ecclestone said:
“I would have given him an open cheque because I trusted him totally. I won’t be going to his funeral. I don’t go to funerals. I may not go to mine. He certainly won’t go to mine. So, it’s all fair. It always was with Eddie.”
Ecclestone, now in his nineties, expressed his deep sadness at the loss of his long-time friend and companion. Reflecting on Jordan’s unique presence in Formula One, he remarked:
“I am very, very sad because Eddie was a special guy. Tell me which team principal today is like him. You can’t give me one because there isn’t one. They don’t make them like that now. We will never replace him in Formula One.”
Tributes Pour In from the Formula One Community
Jordan’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from the global F1 community. Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula One, expressed his condolences, saying:
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the sudden loss of Eddie Jordan. With his inexhaustible energy, he always knew how to make people smile, remaining genuine and brilliant at all times. Eddie has been a protagonist of an era of F1 and he will be deeply missed. In this moment of sorrow, my thoughts and those of the entire Formula 1 family are with his family and loved ones.”
A Unique Friendship
Ecclestone’s decision not to attend the funeral may surprise some, given the enduring bond he shared with Jordan. The pair remained in touch despite their advancing years, with Ecclestone lamenting that modern Formula One lacks characters like Jordan.
In his final months, Jordan received conflicting medical advice, with one doctor suggesting his condition was dire while another indicated the opposite. Sadly, the reality became evident with his passing.
Jordan’s family confirmed his death with a heartfelt statement:
“Eddie passed away peacefully with family by his side in Cape Town in the early hours of 20th March 2025 at the age of 76, after battling with an aggressive form of prostate cancer for the past 12 months.”
Remembering Eddie Jordan
Eddie Jordan’s legacy extends far beyond his success as a team owner and pundit. He will be remembered as a spirited and charismatic figure whose passion for the sport left an indelible impression on Formula One.
