McLaren is among many to pay tribute to the sudden death of his advisor, 2003 Indy 500 winner Gil de Ferran, at the age of 56.De Ferran made his name in a highly successful IndyCar career, culminating with victory at Indianapolis Motor Speedway with Penske Racing in 2003.Most recently, De Ferran worked as a consultant for the McLaren Formula 1 team, which was hired in May 2023 as part of its staff restructuring by new team boss Andrea Stella.
Gil de Ferran suffers a sudden heart attack The Associated Press reports that De Ferran suffered a heart attack while running with his son at the Concourse Club in Florida.Also in attendance was IndyCar legend Tony Kanaan, who told the publication that De Ferran felt unwell and later suffered a heart attack. In response to the shocking news, the McLaren F1 team released the following statement to X: “Everyone at McLaren Racing is shocked and deeply saddened to learn that we have lost a beloved member of our McLaren family.”“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Gil de Ferran.“Gil was an important and essential part of our racing team. He was a formidable force on and off the track and left a lasting impression on all who rode and worked alongside him.“He will be missed by everyone at McLaren Racing.”A statement from Team Penske owner Roger Penske said: “Gil defined the class as a driver and as a gentleman. As an IndyCar champion and Indianapolis 500 winner, Gil has accomplished so much throughout his career, both on and off the track.“Gil was loved by so many people. He was a close friend of Team Penske and the Indy Car family, as well as the entire international motorsports community. Gil’s passing is a terrible loss and he will be greatly missed.”Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, said: “I am shocked and devastated by the loss of our great friend and teammate.“I have raced with Gil all over the world and seen him win some of the biggest races. He has been a wonderful friend for over 20 years and will be greatly missed and never forgotten. My deepest condolences to his family. RIP Gil. The next victory is yours! Good luck.”1978 F1 world champion Mario Andretti, whose son Michael is trying to bring McLaren to the grid via future Andretti-Cadillac entry, said: “My heart sank at the news of Gil de Ferran’s death. He is heartbreaking. “I think about him now and enjoy every conversation. He will be missed by so many. A wonderful man and a dear and loyal friend.”Oscar Piastri, who will make his Formula 1 debut with McLaren in 2023, wrote: “It was a pleasure meeting Gil this year, we will miss him very much. He rests in peace.”Everyone at PlanetF1.com sends our deepest condolences to De Ferran’s family and friends.
Leave a Reply