Last Updated on March 31 2025, 9:50 am

Pérez and Colapinto lead tributes as F1 mourns the loss of Ulises Panizza – Just before the start of the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, the Formula One community was plunged into mourning following the unexpected death of Ulises Panizza, a long-time paddock cameraman known and loved by many throughout the motorsport world. His sudden passing has sent waves of grief through the paddock, from drivers to journalists and media colleagues, all of whom remember him not only for his work, but also for his radiant personality and unmistakable presence.

Panizza’s death was announced just before the start of the weekend and the reaction was one of heartfelt sadness and collective remembrance. Widely regarded as one of the most popular behind-the-scenes figures in the F1 circus, Panizza had become a familiar and much-loved face in the paddock over many years.

An Argentinian national, he lent his cameraman talents to several major broadcasters, including Fox Sports and ESPN, documenting some of the sport’s most iconic moments and developing personal friendships with many of its key figures.

 

 

An indispensable presence in the paddock

Ulises Panizza was more than just a cameraman in the F1 paddock. He was a friend, a supporter and a contagious source of positivity whose laughter and good-natured spirit seemed to brighten even the most stressful race weekends. For those who worked alongside him, his energy and enthusiasm were constants – unwavering and always uplifting.

Over the years, Panizza became particularly close to several Latin American drivers and members of the media. His ability to connect on a personal level, even in a world as fast-paced and demanding as Formula One, earned him immense respect. As much a part of the paddock fabric as the pit wall or the grid itself, Panizza’s contribution went far beyond the camera frame.

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Sergio Pérez pays emotional tribute

Among those to publicly express their heartbreak was Sergio Pérez, Mexico’s most successful Formula 1 driver and someone who shared a strong personal bond with Panizza. The former Red Bull driver took to social media to pay tribute in a post that reflected the deep sense of loss being felt across the sport.

“I am very sad that our beloved Uli has left us,” wrote Pérez. “His joy and humour will be missed. Rest in peace, my brother.”

Pérez’s words echoed what so many in the paddock have long felt about Panizza: that he was a brother to many, someone whose presence mattered far beyond the professional scope of his role. In a sport where the pressure is high and the stakes are enormous, Panizza was a calming, cheerful figure whose friendship meant the world to those who knew him.

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Colapinto remembers a valued early supporter

Fellow Argentinian Franco Colapinto, a rising talent in Formula 2 and a future hope for a seat in Formula 1, also shared a heartfelt message upon hearing the news. For Colapinto, Panizza was not only a friend, but someone who had been present during the formative moments of his journey to the elite level of motorsport.

“The great Uli,” Colapinto wrote. “He always gave his all… we will miss you! It was so nice to share my first F1 races with you. I wish your family strength!”

The message highlighted another important aspect of Panizza’s legacy – his support for young drivers and his pride in their development. For someone like Colapinto, who had to navigate the complicated world of motorsport sponsorship and publicity, having someone like Panizza in his corner early on was a blessing. Their shared nationality added to the bond, and Colapinto’s words were both a tribute and a thank you.

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Journalists and colleagues express their grief

Panizza’s death has also prompted an outpouring of grief from those who worked alongside him in the media. Spanish journalist Albert Fabrega, another prominent presence in the paddock, summed up the loss in stark but heartfelt terms.

“Formula One will be sadder, colder and greyer without Uli,” wrote Fabrega. “How much we will miss you, I will miss you. How hard it will be without your laughter. Rest in peace, my friend. We will never forget you.”

Fabrega’s message touches on a sentiment echoed by many in the days since the news broke: that Panizza’s laughter was a defining characteristic of the man. In a world where cynicism can often creep in, Panizza remained genuine. His humour wasn’t a mask – it was who he was.

Former Sky Sports reporter and F1TV presenter Will Buxton also expressed his devastation. Known for his long career chronicling the highs and lows of the sport, Buxton said he couldn’t remember a moment when Panizza wasn’t smiling.

“I can’t remember a single moment when he wasn’t grinning and laughing,” Buxton said. “This is devastating news. My thoughts are with his loved ones. A loving, wonderful man.”

The sense of loss has been compounded by the suddenness of Panizza’s death. He had only recently been working in the paddock and there was no warning of what was to come. For many, the reality of not seeing his smile again at the next race is unthinkable.

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A quiet pillar of the F1 community

Although his work was largely behind the camera, Ulises Panizza’s presence in the Formula One community was far from invisible. In fact, he was a vital link between the sport and its fans – helping to bring race weekends to life for millions of viewers around the world.

Cameramen like Panizza are rarely in the spotlight, but they are vital to the way the sport is consumed and experienced. Through his lens, he has helped tell the story of modern Formula One. And with his kindness, he earned a place in the hearts of those who bring that story to life every weekend.

His sudden departure has left an unmistakable void. Those who shared the paddock with him speak not just of a colleague lost, but of a family member whose absence will be felt every race weekend. His place at the media table, his laughter between sessions and his ever-ready camera will now remain memories rather than fixtures.

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Remembering Ulises Panizza

As the F1 circus moved through the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, tributes to Panizza continued to pour in from all corners of the sport. Social media platforms were filled with photos, stories and messages celebrating a man whose impact far exceeded his job description. Teams, drivers, broadcasters and fans all joined in remembering a man who truly embodied the spirit of the global and human side of the sport.

No official announcement has been made as to whether there will be a formal tribute during the race weekend, but the paddock is in silent mourning. Few professions are more mobile and transient than Formula One, yet some bonds prove enduring across continents and calendars. Ulises Panizza created such bonds – with his camera, his charisma and his heart.

His voice and laugh may no longer echo through the paddock, but they will remain etched in the memories of those he touched. Formula One has lost one of its brightest smiles, and although the show will go on – as it always does – it will do so a little dimmer, a little quieter and with a heavy heart.

Rest in peace, Uli. You were one of the best.

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