Former Formula One team owner Eddie Jordan has passed away following a battle with cancer, leaving behind a significant legacy in motorsport.
The Dublin-born racing figure was instrumental in Michael Schumacher's career, giving the future seven-time world champion his Formula One debut.
Jordan and Schumacher maintained a close friendship prior to the German driver's devastating skiing accident in 2013, which left him in a medically induced coma for six months.
The Irishman was a beloved figure in racing circles, having made his mark as a driver, F1 team owner, entrepreneur and television pundit.
Eddie Jordan was prevented from seeing Michael Schumacher before his death at the age off 76
GETTY
His death marks the end of an era for Formula One.
Despite their close relationship, Jordan revealed he was unable to visit Schumacher following his accident.
In an interview with The Sun two years ago, Jordan explained: "I made an effort to go see Michael in the early days and Corinna refused, and rightfully so because too many people wanted to go see him."
Eddie Jordan has died at the age of 76
PAIt's believed Corinna imposed a "family only" rule for visits, with rare exceptions.
"Jean Todt was given the privilege to go see him because of how close they were from their time together at Ferrari which is completely understandable," Jordan said.
"I was not able to go see Michael and they said 'We love you Eddie and we've been involved with you for a very long time, but we do need privacy and safeguard of Michael'."
Jordan, who had known Corinna since she married Michael, expressed understanding of her protective stance.
"This was the most horrific situation for Mick and Corinna," he acknowledged.
"It's been nearly 10 years now and Corinna has not been able to go to a party, to lunch or this or that, she's like a prisoner because everyone would want to talk to her about Michael when she doesn't need reminding of it every minute."
In one of his final media appearances, Jordan made a heartfelt plea for cancer awareness.
"Go and get tested, because in life, you've got chances," he urged on the Formula For Success podcast.
He openly discussed his diagnosis: "We've kind of alluded to it over the shows, way back in March and April, I was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer, and then it spread into the spine and the pelvis, so it was quite aggressive."
Michael Schumacher has not been seen in public since his skiing crash in 2013PAJordan will be remembered as an F1 icon.
He won four races during his career and spent 15 years in charge of a Formula One side.
