What was Alex Zanardi's cause of death?

Final illness and hospitalization

Zanardi spent his final years in a specialized long-term care facility in southern Padova after suffering a serious handbike accident in 2020 near Pienza while conducting one of his sporting projects. He was hospitalized initially at San Bortolo in Vicenza before being transferred to the Padova facility where he remained for three years. During this period he endured a prolonged and difficult recovery marked by suffering and complications.

Fatal event

Zanardi experienced a fatal illness on the evening of May 1, 2026. The article describes this as a malore, or sudden serious health episode, which proved fatal. In his final days before this event, he was able to move about in a wheelchair with medical and family assistance for short outings near the care facility, though he remained under constant care.

Family and final care

Zanardi spent his last days with his wife Daniela Manni and son Niccolò by his side in Padova, where the family had made their home since the early 2000s. The family maintained privacy throughout his hospitalization and recovery period, with the care facility providing a secure environment. He was attended by medical staff and family members throughout his final illness.