Formula 1 is full of polished corporate figures, men in tailored suits speaking in rehearsed soundbites, all careful not to ruffle too many feathers. Then there’s Eddie Jordan.
A gambling Irishman, a risk-taker, a showman, and a businessman with an instinct for the outrageous. He didn’t just enter Formula 1—he crashed through the gates, set up his own team, and went to war with the biggest names in motorsport.
From bankrolling Michael Schumacher’s first F1 race to selling his team for millions, to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in the sport, Eddie Jordan was not just a businessman—he was an icon.
From Racing Driver to F1 Team Boss
Eddie Jordan didn’t start as a billionaire businessman. He started as a race car driver.
Born in Dublin in 1948, Jordan’s early life had nothing to do with racing. He originally trained as an accountant but, after working in a bank for a few years, he had an epiphany—he wanted to race cars, not count money.
So he quit banking, hopped into a kart, and started competing.
By the late 1970s, he had worked his way up the ranks in British motorsport, but he quickly realized he was better at running teams than driving cars. And that’s when everything changed.
The Birth of Jordan Grand Prix: A Team of Misfits Who Took on the World
In 1980, Jordan set up Eddie Jordan Racing, a team that competed in the lower categories of Formula racing. He had a gift—finding raw talent and turning it into gold.
Then came the big leap.
In 1991, he launched Jordan Grand Prix, a Formula 1 team built from nothing. With no major funding, no big sponsors, and no guarantees, Jordan threw himself into the deep end of the sport’s most cutthroat business.
And what happened?
- Michael Schumacher made his F1 debut for Jordan in 1991 before moving to Benetton.
- Damon Hill won Jordan’s first-ever Grand Prix in Belgium in 1998.
- The yellow Jordan cars became some of the most iconic machines in F1 history.
- In 1999, Jordan finished third in the Constructors’ Championship, ahead of teams like Ferrari and McLaren.
For a brief moment, Eddie Jordan was on top of the world.
The Sale of Jordan Grand Prix: From Underdog to Millionaire
But Formula 1 is a brutal game.
By the early 2000s, big manufacturers were taking over, and small independent teams like Jordan were struggling to survive.
In 2005, Jordan sold his team to the Midland Group for a reported $60 million. It later became Spyker, then Force India, then Racing Point, and is now Aston Martin.
Eddie Jordan walked away, richer than ever, but still hungry for more.
The Media Career: The Voice of Formula 1
You can take Eddie Jordan out of Formula 1, but you can’t take Formula 1 out of Eddie Jordan.
After selling his team, he reinvented himself as one of the sport’s most controversial pundits.
- He became a TV presenter on BBC’s F1 coverage, where his loud shirts and even louder opinions made him a fan favorite.
- He later joined Channel 4’s F1 team, where he continued to make waves with his bold predictions and insider knowledge.
- He even made guest appearances on Top Gear, where he showed off his love for insane cars.
He’s never been one to play it safe. And that’s why fans love him or hate him—but never ignore him.
Eddie Jordan’s Yacht, Car Collection, and Life of Luxury
Money? Eddie Jordan has plenty of it.
He owns one of the most expensive yachts in the world, the Sunseeker 155, which cost around £32 million. This floating palace is a regular sight in Monaco, where Jordan spends much of his time.
His car collection is legendary, featuring everything from Ferraris and Lamborghinis to rare vintage race cars. His love for speed didn’t stop when he quit F1—he just swapped the racetrack for the open road.
But behind the flash and the luxury, he’s still the same man who took a gamble and won.
Eddie Jordan’s Family: A Legacy Beyond Racing
For all his success, Eddie Jordan’s biggest investment has been in his family.
He’s been married to Marie Jordan, a former basketball player, for decades. Together, they have four children, including a daughter who has followed in her father’s footsteps in business.
His son has also been involved in motorsport, but Eddie never forced his kids into racing—he let them find their own way.
FAQs About Eddie Jordan
Is Eddie Jordan Ill? (update)
Eddie Jordan passed away on the 20th of March 2025 following a battle with cancer
FAQs About Eddie Jordan
How did Eddie Jordan make his money?
Eddie Jordan made his money by founding and running Jordan Grand Prix, selling the team in 2005, and later working as an F1 pundit, businessman, and investor.
How much is Jordan’s net worth?
As of 2025, Eddie Jordan’s net worth is estimated to be around $600 million, thanks to his F1 career, business ventures, and investments.
What yacht does Eddie Jordan own?
Eddie Jordan owns the Sunseeker 155, a £32 million luxury yacht often seen in Monaco.
How much is Eddie’s net worth?
Eddie Jordan’s net worth is approximately $600 million, making him one of the wealthiest figures in motorsport.
Is Michael Schumacher a billionaire?
No, Michael Schumacher is not a billionaire, but his net worth has been estimated at $600 million, similar to Eddie Jordan’s.
How did Jordan get rich?
Eddie Jordan became rich by building a successful F1 team, selling it at the right time, and investing his earnings wisely.
What F1 team did Eddie Jordan own?
Eddie Jordan owned Jordan Grand Prix, which later became Midland, Spyker, Force India, Racing Point, and eventually Aston Martin.
The Maverick Who Never Played by the Rules
Eddie Jordan is one of a kind.
A man who built a Formula 1 team from scratch, took risks others wouldn’t, and left the sport as one of its most successful entrepreneurs.
And now, in his 70s, he’s still living life on his own terms—racing yachts, collecting cars, and enjoying every second of it.
RIP Eddie Jordan, (Update)
Eddie Jordan, Iconic Irish F1 Entrepreneur and Team Boss, Dies at 76
Renowned Irish entrepreneur and former Formula One team principal Eddie Jordan has passed away at the age of 76.
Born in Dublin, Jordan had recently shared in December 2024 that he was battling advanced bladder and prostate cancer, which had tragically metastasized to his spine and pelvis. His family confirmed that he died peacefully in the early hours of March 20th, 2025, with loved ones by his side in Cape Town, South Africa.
In a heartfelt statement, his family said:
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Eddie Jordan OBE — former Formula 1 team owner, television personality, and celebrated entrepreneur. Eddie passed away peacefully in Cape Town surrounded by his family after a courageous 12-month battle with aggressive prostate cancer. His infectious energy, unmistakable charisma, and irrepressible Irish charm made him beloved by so many. His absence leaves a void that words can scarcely fill, but he leaves behind countless cherished memories that will continue to bring smiles through our tears.”
A Legacy in Racing That Changed the Sport Forever
Eddie Jordan’s name is etched in Formula One history. His team, Jordan Grand Prix, competed in 250 Grands Prix between 1991 and 2005, claiming four victories during its tenure.
Perhaps the most iconic moment in the team’s history came at the 1998 Belgian Grand Prix, where Damon Hill led a memorable 1-2 finish, delivering Jordan’s finest result.
Jordan also played a crucial role in launching the career of Michael Schumacher, giving the young German driver his Formula One debut at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix — a moment that would ignite one of the most successful careers in motorsport history, culminating in seven world titles, a record later matched by Lewis Hamilton.
Tributes from Across the F1 World
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula One, shared a poignant tribute ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai:
“We are truly saddened by the passing of Eddie Jordan. His energy was limitless, and his ability to make people laugh was only matched by his brilliance. Eddie was a defining figure of a remarkable era in F1, and he will be missed by everyone in the sport. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Beyond the Paddock: A Career in Broadcasting and Business
After selling his F1 team in 2005, Jordan stepped away from team ownership but soon returned to the spotlight in a different capacity. He joined BBC Sport’s Formula One coverage in 2009, bringing insight, wit, and a unique blend of analysis and irreverence. He later moved to Channel 4’s F1 broadcast team, and also made a brief appearance as a co-presenter on Top Gear.
Jordan remained a lively presence in motorsport and business circles. Earlier this year, he led a consortium that acquired rugby club London Irish, and was also instrumental in Adrian Newey’s headline-grabbing £20 million move from Red Bull to Aston Martin.
Aston Martin Racing released a statement saying:
“We are deeply saddened to learn of Eddie Jordan’s passing. His contribution to motorsport has left a lasting legacy that will inspire generations to come.”
A Man Who Lit Up Every Room He Entered
Former BBC colleague Jake Humphrey paid tribute on social media:
“Devastated to hear of Eddie’s passing. There’ll never be another like him — a man who hustled his way into F1 and ended up winning races and hearts. He would light up with pride every time he saw a Jordan GP logo or flag, long after the team had been sold. His greatest pride was always his family — Mikki, Zoe, Kyle, Zak — and his wife Marie, one of the most incredible women I’ve ever known.”
Humphrey added:
“The four years we worked together on F1 coverage were some of the best of my career — full of madness, joy, and unforgettable memories. His spirit lives on in everyone who knew him. He told me during our last meal together, ‘I love you, brother.’ The world feels a little dimmer without him.”
A Final Message of Awareness
In his final public message, delivered on his Formula For Success podcast with co-host David Coulthard, Jordan urged listeners to take their health seriously.
“Don’t put it off. Get tested. Take care of your body. Don’t be stupid. Don’t be shy. Life doesn’t give you second chances. Do it now.”
Eddie Jordan was more than a motorsport figure. He was a force of nature—a bold entrepreneur, a visionary team principal, a passionate broadcaster, and a man who wore his Irish heritage with pride, wherever his ventures took him.
He leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, impact, and relentless ambition.
May he rest in peace.
For more stories on Ireland’s sporting greats, check out:
- Séamus Coleman – The Last of a Dying Breed in Football
- James Lowe – The Kiwi Who Became Irish Rugby’s X-Factor
- Garry Ringrose – The Silent Assassin of Irish Rugby
- Sam Prendergast – The Future of Irish Rugby
- Evan Ferguson – The Irish Juggernaut Who Refuses to Be Ignored
Because Ireland doesn’t just produce sportsmen—it produces legends. And Eddie Jordan? He’s one of the greatest.
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