Alonso mourns physio Fabrizio Borra, calling him “brother” after his death from cancer at 64

Fernando Alonso is in mourning following the death of Fabrizio Borra, his long-serving physio and one of the most constant presences throughout his racing career. Borra passed away on Sunday morning in Forli, Italy, after a year-long fight with cancer. He was 64.

Born in Brescia, Borra had worked with Alonso from the very beginning of his Formula 1 journey. Their partnership began in 2001, when the young Spaniard made his F1 debut with Minardi, and endured through every twist, triumph and setback across two decades in the sport.

Their relationship was more than just professional. Over time, Borra became one of Alonso’s closest confidants, always by his side in the paddock and beyond. On Sunday, Alonso shared a deeply personal tribute on social media, confirming the profound sense of loss.

“I’ll miss you, Fabri. Every day,” Alonso wrote. “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. ”

The message was as raw as it was heartfelt—Alonso clearly devastated by the passing of someone who helped shape not only his fitness but also his life.

Borra wasn’t just a background figure. In F1 circles, he was a familiar face and respected professional, having worked with other giants of motorsport. Most notably, he helped Michael Schumacher recover from a broken leg after the Ferrari driver’s horrific crash at the 1999 British Grand Prix. That recovery remains one of the most high-profile rehabilitation efforts in F1 history, and Borra’s role was instrumental.

His experience spanned far beyond Formula 1. Borra also worked closely with Motogp star Andrea Dovizioso and was trusted by some of the biggest names in cycling, including the late Marco Pantani. His client list extended into the entertainment world too, making him one of Italy’s most versatile and sought-after sports physiotherapists.

But for many F1 fans, his name remains most linked to Alonso. In 2007, during one of the most dramatic seasons in F1 history, Borra found himself at the centre of controversy. He was confronted by McLaren boss Ron Dennis after a fiery qualifying session at the Hungarian Grand Prix, where Alonso famously held up Lewis Hamilton in the pit lane. The incident only further underlined how deeply involved Borra was in the inner workings of Alonso’s career.

Their bond appeared unshakeable—one built on mutual respect, trust, and years of shared highs and lows across multiple teams and championships. When Alonso returned to F1 with Aston Martin in 2023, Borra was still by his side, proof of their enduring connection.

In a sport often dominated by cold rivalries and relentless ambition, their friendship stood out as something deeply human.

News of Borra’s death has saddened many across the motorsport community, especially those who knew the quiet strength he brought behind the scenes. Tributes have begun to pour in, recognising not only his professionalism but the warmth and care he gave to everyone he worked with.

As Alonso continues to compete at the highest level of motorsport, it’s clear that he’ll carry Borra’s memory with him every step of the way. His farewell wasn’t just that of a driver bidding goodbye to his physio. It was a goodbye between brothers in arms—one who drove, and one who kept him going.