Meet Alex Zanardi’s Wife, Daniela Manni, Who Stood By The F1 Driver Till His Death At The Age Of 59

The much loved, respected and celebrated racing driver and Paralympic champion, Alex Zanardi, has tragically passed away. His demise has shocked the entire sports world. For those who do not know, over the years, Alex has won multiple Paralympic gold medals; however, he met with an accident in 2001, that changed his life. Amid the tough time, it was Alex’s wife, Daniela, who stood by him. Well, now if you are curious to know more about Daniela Manni, we’ve got you covered! 

Alex Zanardi’s wife, Daniela Manni met the racing driver in late 1980s

Alex Zanardi and his wife, Daniela Manni first met in the late 1980s. Reportedly, at that time, Daniela was working as a team manager for a Formula 3 racing team. This is where she met Alex Zanardi. Eventually, the two became friends and ended up getting married in 1996. It is worth mentioning that there is not much information about Daniela and her early life. Two years after their marriage, Alex and Daniela welcomed their first child named Niccolo in 1998.

Daniela Manni stood beside Alex Zanardi, amid his accidents

When everything seemed good with Alex Zanardi and their family, things took an awful turn in 2001, during the CART race at the Lausitzring, as Alex met with a terrible accident. Later, when Alex woke up, it was Daniela who told him exactly what happened to him and asked him to stay positive.

After the accident, Alex Zanardi returned with a bang. He went ahead to win the World Touring Car Championship four times. Further, he became the Paralympic handcycling champion and in 2012 and 2016, he won gold. Amid that, he received constant support from his wife, Daniela. However, in 2020, a tragedy struck again when Alex’s handcycle collided with a truck.

During the tough times, Daniela took care of the entire family and shielded them during Alex’s rehabilitation. She made sure her family and son stayed safe and away from media attention. Reportedly, they also gave space to Alex to recover. Daniela once explained:

“One year after the accident, Alex’s condition is essentially stable. He is currently in a special clinic, where he is undergoing a rehabilitation programme…. He (Alex Zanardi) can communicate with us, but he is still unable to speak. After a long time in a coma, the vocal cords must regain their elasticity… He still has a lot of strength in his arms and hands, and is training intensively on the equipment.” 

Alex Zanardi’s family confirmed his tragic death

Alex Zanardi tragically passed away on May 1, 2026, at the age of 59. It is worth mentioning that Alex was surrounded by his close family. The cause of his death still has not been revealed. However, the accident that happened in 2020, left a major impact on him. Fans are heartbroken by his demise. Eventually, Alex Zanardi’s family opened up about his final days and shared:

“It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly yesterday evening, May 1. Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all those who are showing their support at this time and ask that their grief and privacy be respected during this period of mourning.”

Coming to Alex Zanardi’s racing journey, he rose to fame in the 1990s. At that time, he played for multiple teams. Despite having an established career, he rose to worldwide fame after winning several championships. It is worth noting that over the years, Alex has won multiple medals. 

What are your thoughts on Alex Zanardi’s wife, Daniela Manni, who stood by him till his last breath? Let us know.

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Photo credit: Alex Zanardi/Instagram