Fernando Alonso Mourns Death of Long-Time Confidant Fabrizio Borra as Formula 1 Prepares for Imola Amid Emotional Loss
Fernando Alonso, the legendary two-time Formula 1 world champion, is mourning the loss of one of the most pivotal and enduring figures in his racing journey—Fabrizio Borra, his long-time physiotherapist and close personal friend. Borra passed away on Sunday morning in Forlì, Italy, at the age of 64, following a quiet and courageous year-long battle with cancer. His death marks a deeply emotional moment not only for Alonso but also for the wider Formula 1 family, where Borra was a highly respected and beloved figure.
Borra wasn’t just a professional support for Alonso; he was a cornerstone in the driver’s life, both personally and professionally. Their bond was forged over two decades ago, in 2001, when Alonso made his debut in Formula 1 with Minardi. From that point onward, Borra became an ever-present figure in Alonso’s career, following him through his moves to some of F1’s most iconic teams—Renault, McLaren, Ferrari, Alpine, and more recently, Aston Martin.
Throughout these years, Borra played an indispensable role in Alonso’s physical conditioning, helping him maintain peak form in a sport that demands unmatched endurance, strength, and reflexes. But his responsibilities stretched far beyond physiotherapy. Borra was a confidant, advisor, and emotional anchor—someone Alonso trusted implicitly amid the intense pressures of elite motorsport. His presence offered stability through the highs of championship victories and the lows of setbacks, injuries, and team transitions.
Fabrizio Borra was not only a giant in Alonso’s life but also a renowned figure in the world of sports medicine. Widely regarded as one of Italy’s foremost physiotherapists, his expertise attracted some of the best athletes in the world. He famously worked with seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, providing essential support that many say contributed to Schumacher’s dominant reign in the sport. Borra’s influence in the paddock helped elevate the standard of physical care and preparation across Formula 1.
His methodology combined scientific rigor with an intuitive grasp of the mental and emotional challenges drivers face. In an arena like F1—where athletes are subjected to intense G-forces, extreme heat, and long, grueling races—his innovative approach to physical therapy made a measurable difference. He was instrumental in helping his clients avoid injury, recover faster, and consistently perform at their best, often under the most demanding conditions.
Borra’s death was first reported by Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, triggering a heartfelt response from the global motorsport community. Tributes poured in from fellow physiotherapists, drivers, team personnel, and fans who remembered Borra not just for his exceptional skills, but also for his warmth, compassion, and the unwavering dedication he gave to everyone he worked with. He was known for his kindness and his ability to forge deep, trusting relationships that often lasted decades.
For Alonso, the news is a devastating personal loss. Borra had been a near-constant figure in his professional journey, one of the few people who had witnessed his evolution as a driver and as a person. Their relationship spanned more than half of Alonso’s life and career, encompassing everything from championship triumphs to dramatic comebacks. The absence of such a foundational presence will undoubtedly leave a profound void as Alonso continues his 2025 season.
As the Formula 1 world looks ahead to the next race at Imola, there’s a somber tone in the paddock. While the race weekend hangs in the balance due to external uncertainties, the emotional atmosphere is undeniable. For Alonso and many others, the memory of Fabrizio Borra will loom large—not just as a loss, but as a legacy. His impact on the sport, and on the lives of the champions he guided, will be remembered for years to come.
