Cedric Sbirrazzuoli: Ferrari GT3 driver dies at 39 after cancer battle

Cedric Sbirrazzuoli, a Monegasque GT and endurance racing driver, has died at the age of 39 after a prolonged battle with cancer. He passed away on Thursday, August 20, coinciding with his 39th birthday. Sbirrazzuoli leaves behind his wife, Martina, whom he married just six months prior. His passing has prompted widespread tributes from motorsport teams, teammates, and fellow drivers around the globe. Known for his versatility and skill, Sbirrazzuoli had a distinguished career spanning multiple racing disciplines, including GT and endurance racing, where he frequently drove Ferrari machinery for AF Corse and Conquest Racing. Born in Monaco in 1987, Sbirrazzuoli launched his racing journey in the mid-2000s. Initially competing in single-seater categories, he transitioned to closed-wheel racing, marking the beginning of his long and varied career. Over time, he participated in numerous prestigious series such as GT4, GT2, and the Porsche Carrera Cup. His involvement in one-make championships further expanded his experience, including the Maserati Trophy and Lamborghini Super Trofeo. A pivotal moment in his career came through his association with AF Corse, which facilitated his entry into Ferrari’s GT racing program. This partnership allowed him to compete in models such as the Ferrari 458 Italia GT3, 488, and more recently, the 296 GT3. Throughout his career, Sbirrazzuoli took part in several high-profile endurance and GT championships. These included the European Le Mans Series and the Asian Le Mans Series, as well as GT World Challenge Europe and America. He also competed in the Italian GT Championship before shifting focus to IMSA competitions. In 2024, he joined Conquest Racing for the IMSA Endurance Cup, sharing the #34 Ferrari with regular drivers Albert Costa and Manny Franco. The season yielded notable successes, including podium finishes at the 24 Hours of Daytona and Watkins Glen, culminating in a victorious performance at Petit Le Mans. This triumph stands as one of the final highlights of his racing career. Following the announcement of his death, AF Corse issued a heartfelt tribute. They described Sbirrazzuoli as a highly talented, determined, and professional driver, emphasizing his passion and dedication to racing. The statement highlighted his positive personality, noting how he brought joy and enthusiasm to the sport. AF Corse expressed their sorrow over his untimely passing and conveyed their condolences to his family and friends. Similarly, former teammates and colleagues have shared emotional messages in remembrance of Sbirrazzuoli. Michelle Gatting, an Iron Dames racer, honored him while also recalling the late Luca Persiani, another driver who lost his life in a tragic accident last year. Albert Costa, who raced alongside Sbirrazzuoli at Conquest Racing, reflected on their friendship and the lasting impact of his achievements, particularly the Petit Le Mans victory. Sbirrazzuoli's career, though cut short, left an indelible mark on the motorsport community. His contributions to GT and endurance racing, coupled with his personal qualities, have inspired many within the field. As the motorsport world mourns his loss, the legacy of his accomplishments and the memories he created with his teammates will endure. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by athletes in the pursuit of excellence, and the profound impact they can have even in the face of adversity.