Former Formula 1 driver Andrea de Adamich passed away at the age of 84. De Adamich, who competed for McLaren and Ferrari, participated in 34 World Championship Grand Prix races during his career.
Notably, his F1 journey came to an abrupt halt after a significant 10-car crash during the initial lap of the 1973 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, resulting in a broken ankle and other leg injuries.
After retiring from racing, De Adamich transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, becoming a well-known commentator and TV expert, engaging in on-air debates. Between 1978 and 2012, he hosted the TV show Grand Prix on Italia 1.
Hailing from Trieste, De Adamich achieved early success by clinching the Italian Formula 3 title in 1965 and later joining Alfa Romeo. He secured victories in the European Touring Car Championship in 1966 and 1967 driving the Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA before moving to Ferrari in 1968.
Throughout his career, De Adamich also competed with teams like March, Surtees, and Brabham, excelling in endurance racing alongside notable figures such as Piers Courage, Henri Pescarolo, and Italians Ninni Vaccarella and Nanni Galli.
His achievements included wins at prestigious events like the 200 Miles of Buenos Aires in 1970, the 1000 KM of Brands Hatch in England, and the Six Hours of Watkins Glen in the United States in 1971. In his final season in 1974, he secured podium finishes in all four 1000km races he participated in.
Although he also took part in the Le Mans race twice, finishing fourth in 1972, De Adamich’s contributions to television broadcasting garnered him widespread appreciation. Following his demise, tributes poured in from fans and colleagues, highlighting his professionalism and passion for the sport.
