Former Formula 1 driver De Cesaris killed in motorbike accident

Local media reports say that de Cesaris lost control of his bike on a road near Rome and was killed instantly.

De Cesaris competed in 214 races across a 15-year career, claiming a pole position and five podiums. He held the record for the most races without claiming a victory and was a well-liked figure within the Formula 1 community.

He made his debut with Alfa Romeo in 1980 before moving to McLaren for 1981, a decision which proved unsuccessful and he returned to Alfa Romeo for two seasons. 1983 proved to be his best year as he twice finished on the podium and classified eighth in the championship.

Several frugal seasons followed as he raced for Ligier, Minardi, Brabham, Rial and Dallara, but among many retirements were a couple of top three results.

De Cesaris joined Jordan for its first foray into Formula 1 in 1991 and claimed the team's maiden points in Canada, as well as competing for victory in Belgium. He made the switch to Tyrrell for a couple of seasons and 1994 was his final year in the sport as he briefly returned to Jordan before bowing out with Sauber.