Zanardi, who lost his legs in a racing crash, was credited with helping transform the perception of disability in Italy. Alex Zanardi, the Italian Formula One driver who became a Paralympic cycling champion after losing both legs in an accident, has died aged 59, his family announced. Zanardi, one of his country’s most loved and respected sportsmen, who was credited with helping transform the perception of disability in Italy, died on Friday evening. Recommended Stories list of 4 items list 1 of 4 United host Liverpool as battle for Champions League places heats up list 2 of 4 Pistons and Raptors survive while LA Lakers progress in NBA playoffs list 3 of 4 Barcelona in sight of La Liga title a week before El Clasico with Real list 4 of 4 Cricket club bans social media comments to protect players’ mental health end of list In a statement issued on Saturday through the charity he founded, Obiettivo3, his family said he died “suddenly”, but also “peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends”.…