Former F1 driver de Cesaris killed in motorcycle crash

Former F1 driver Andrea de Cesaris has been killed in a motorcycle accident in his native Italy at the age of 55.

According to reports, de Cesaris - who drove for no fewer than ten teams during a 14-year F1 career - was killed instantly in a crash on Rome's ring road.

Having made his debut in 1980 for Alfa Romeo, de Cesaris' first full season was with McLaren the following year. He returned to Alfa Romeo in 1982 and it was with this team with whom he recorded his highest finish of second in South African in 1983.

Following stints with Ligier, Minardi, Brabham, Dallara, Rial, Jordan, Sauber and Tyrrell, de Cesaris retired after 208 races, leaving him with the record of the most grands prix starts without a victory.

Having briefly resurfaced in the Grand Prix Masters series, the concept proved short-lived and the Italian was thrust back into retirement once again, going on to become a currency trader.

Crash.net extends its sympathies to de Cesaris' family and friends at this sad time.