Alonso pays tribute to Adrian Campos, after F2 team owner's sudden passing

Former Formula 1 driver and Formula 2 team owner Adrian Campos, who played a key role in many young drivers’ careers, including Fernando Alonso's, has died, aged 60.

"Today is the saddest day in the history of Campos Racing,” said his team on social media. “Our President and founder, Adrian Campos Suner, has left us.

“His heart stopped beating, but his memory will be the engine that will keep us all fighting to continue his legacy. Rest in Peace.”

Campos made his F1 racing debut with Minardi in 1987, completing a difficult full season alongside Alessandro Nannini, which yielded just one classified finish – 14th at Jerez.

He did part of the 1988 season, but after failing to qualify for three races in succession he left the team, with Pierluigi Martini taking his seat.

After retiring, he turned his attention to team management, winning the Open by Nissan title with Alonso in 1999. The Spaniard would subsequently move up to F1 with Minardi, the same team who'd given Campos his debut.

“One of the saddest days for the motorsport family,” said Alonso on social media. “Thank you for believing in young people. Rest in peace,”

Campos entered a team in GP2, the then feeder series to F1, in 2005 and they became regular race winners, also lifting the teams' crown in 2008. Campos subsequently successfully gained entry to F1 for the 2010 season. However, financial issues led to a change in ownership before that dream could become a reality.

“We are deeply saddened by the news that Adrian Campos has passed away,” said F1 in a statement. “The whole F1 community sends its condolences to his family and friends.”