BREAKING: Fernando Alonso Pays Tribute as Long-Time Physio Fabrizio Borra Passes Away I…read more
BREAKING: Fernando Alonso Pays Tribute as Long-Time Physio Fabrizio Borra Passes Away I…read more
Fernando Alonso has paid an emotional tribute following the passing of his long-time physiotherapist and close friend, Fabrizio Borra, who died on Sunday at the age of 64 after a year-long battle with cancer.
Borra, a well-known and respected figure in the Formula 1 paddock, passed away in the Italian city of Forlì. Born in Brescia, Borra had been a part of Alonso’s inner circle since the Spaniard’s debut season with Minardi in 2001 and remained by his side throughout a storied F1 career that includes two World Championships.
Alonso took to social media to honor the man he described as a mentor, friend, and key figure in his success:
“I’ll miss you, Fabri. Every day. Thank you for teaching me so much and making me a better person and athlete. My whole career with you has been the greatest good fortune I could have. Rest in peace, brother.”
Borra’s legacy in motorsport extends far beyond his work with Alonso. He played a critical role in the recovery of seven-time F1 World Champion Michael Schumacher after his crash at the 1999 British Grand Prix, and also supported MotoGP star Andrea Dovizioso, as well as cycling legend Marco Pantani. His client list even spanned into the entertainment industry, with prominent Italian singer-songwriter Jovanotti among those who paid tribute.
Jovanotti, who worked with Borra for over 25 years, shared a heartfelt message on social media, describing Borra as “an innovator” and “an undisputed leader” in the world of physiotherapy.
“We laughed and cried together, we suffered and rejoiced together,”*he wrote.
“He helped me overcome obstacles and we never lost our lightness and confidence… His lesson remains: head up and move forward, smile, welcome, humanity, and study every day.”
Borra’s passing comes as a significant loss not only to Alonso but to the wider sports community. He was known for developing a holistic approach to physical therapy, blending traditional methods with an understanding of psychological well-being. His influence helped shape the careers of elite athletes across disciplines, and his personalized care became a hallmark of his practice.
In one of the more memorable moments of his time in F1, Borra was famously caught in the crossfire during the 2007 Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying session, when tensions erupted between Alonso and then-McLaren teammate Lewis Hamilton. McLaren team principal Ron Dennis confronted Borra in the garage, underscoring the physio’s constant presence during critical moments of Alonso’s career.
Borra is survived by his wife Enia and sons Luca and Daniele, both of whom continue his legacy through the Fisiology Center he founded in Forlì. The center remains a testament to his life’s work, helping athletes and patients alike with tailored recovery programs and innovative techniques.
Despite undergoing a difficult operation last year, Borra made an emotional visit to the Italian Grand Prix at Monza—a trip that would be his last appearance in the F1 paddock.
As the motorsport world mourns his loss, tributes continue to pour in, highlighting the indelible impact Fabrizio Borra had both professionally and personally. For Alonso, and many others, his absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy will endure.
