UFC megastar Conor McGregor is grieving the loss of a close friend, as the sports world, particularly Formula One, was left stunned by the passing of track mogul and former Irish F1 team owner Eddie Jordan at the age of 76. Known for his remarkable career, ‘EJ’, once a bank clerk, made a name for himself in the ’70s and ’80s. He started in kart championships, progressed through Formula Ford and Formula 2, and ultimately became the owner of Eddie Jordan Racing, an F1 team that made its mark on the sport.

In December 2024, Eddie Jordan revealed that he was battling “quite aggressive” prostate and bladder cancer, which had spread to his pelvis and spine. On March 20, as the Chinese Grand Prix was approaching, the heartbreaking news of his passing reached Ireland and the global sports community. The Jordan family shared a statement: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Eddie Jordan… He passed away peacefully with family by his side in Cape Town in the early hours of 20th March 2025 at the age of 76.”

Conor McGregor, who shared Eddie Jordan’s Irish roots, expressed his grief over the loss of the athlete-turned-business mogul. On X, ‘The Notorious’ paid tribute with a heartfelt message: “Rest in peace, Eddie! Pioneer and innovator of Irish racing! One of our absolute finest,” accompanied by a photo of Eddie. McGregor posted again, writing, “RIP Eddie Jordan, one of our finest,” alongside more images honoring the racing legend.

McGregor and Jordan were first seen together publicly in May 2022 during the Monaco F1 Grand Prix. The two Irishmen shared the race experience, and a viral photo showed the Dubliner holding the Irish flag after the race, which was won by Sergio Perez, though ‘The Notorious’ stole the spotlight with his presence at the track.

It is safe to say that ‘EJ’s path to motorsport was nothing short of serendipitous. After working at a bank in the ’70s, he and other bank workers went on strike, prompting him to return to Ireland and eventually pivot into racing. The rest, as they say, is history. Fans are deeply mourning the loss of this iconic figure in the world of motorsport. Let’s take a look at what fans have been saying.

Fans joined Conor McGregor in mourning the death of Irish racing innovator Eddie Jordan

Both Conor McGregor and Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin paid tribute to Eddie Jordan following his passing. In an official statement, Martin expressed his sorrow, saying, “I was greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Eddie Jordan.” ‘EJ’ was more than just a motorsport icon in Ireland—he was a pivotal figure in Formula One history. He played a crucial role in launching the career of F1 legend Michael Schumacher, who made his debut with the Eddie Jordan-Ford team at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix.

A visionary in the sport, Jordan left an enduring legacy by shaping the careers of many drivers. Fans poured in their condolences, with one commenting, “Sorry for your loss, Conor. RIP,” while another reflected on his extraordinary journey, saying, “Lived fast and had a great life.” Like Conor McGregor, ‘EJ’s rise to fame was a true rags-to-riches story. He seized every opportunity that came his way and built an empire. By the time of his passing, estimates placed his net worth at $600 million, due to the 2005 sale of his F1 team, the Jordan Grand Prix, and his investments in real estate, gaming, and entertainment.

One fan summed up his remarkable journey, stating, “Man came from nothing and made something. Great man and leader. RIP EJ.” Eddie Jordan’s impact on Formula One was undeniable. After years of competing in various Grand Prix events, his Jordan Grand Prix team gained recognition, finishing third in the Constructors’ Championship in 1999. Fans honored his contributions to the sport, with one writing, “Eddie Jordan was an #F1 legend. No other character like him never will be. RIP EJ.” Another echoed similar sentiments, saying, “Oh man, such a loss. Eddie brought so much to the sport. It’s hard losing someone who shaped things we love so much.”

Even after stepping away from team ownership, EJ’ remained a prominent voice in the motorsport world. He transitioned into a successful career as an analyst for BBC and Channel 4, sharing his expertise with fans. He also contributed insightful articles to FE Racing Magazine. But his talents extended beyond the racetrack—Jordan had a deep passion for music and played drums in rock bands.

Fans are struggling to come to terms with his passing, knowing they will never see the charismatic F1 legend on TV again. One fan bid him farewell, writing, “Farewell, legend. You’ll be missed.” Interestingly, despite his long-standing friendship with Michael Schumacher, Jordan was once denied the chance to visit the F1 legend after Schumacher’s tragic skiing accident in 2013.

‘EJ’, as one of his close well-wishers, wanted to see him in the hospital. However, Schumacher’s wife, Corinna, insisted on maintaining strict privacy and prevented ‘EJ’ from visiting. Yet, for fans, Jordan’s legacy remains untarnished. As one admirer aptly put it, “A great dude, no doubt. RIP Eddie.”

What are your thoughts on Eddie Jordan’s legacy as a pioneer of Irish motorsport? Share your thoughts below.