Eddie Jordan was never one to play by the rules. The founder of Jordan Grand Prix, known for his larger-than-life personality and rock ‘n’ roll attitude, had a knack for making bold decisions that left an indelible mark on Formula 1. While many know him for discovering Michael Schumacher and bringing fresh energy to the sport, few are aware of the masterstroke he pulled when selling his beloved team. This untold story showcases Eddie Jordan’s sharp business mind and refusal to be outplayed, even when stepping away from the F1 paddock.
The Sale of Jordan Grand Prix
By 2005, Jordan Grand Prix was struggling to remain competitive against the manufacturer-backed teams dominating Formula 1. With increasing financial pressure and a changing landscape in the sport, Eddie Jordan made the difficult decision to sell his team. The buyer was the Midland Group, a Russian-Canadian conglomerate, eager to enter Formula 1. For many, this would have been the end of an era, but for Eddie Jordan, it was an opportunity for one last act of brilliance.
The Driveway Clause – A Masterstroke
When negotiating the sale, Jordan included a clause that, at first glance, seemed inconsequential. He retained ownership of the driveway leading to the team’s headquarters in Silverstone. To the untrained eye, this might have seemed like a trivial detail, but in reality, it was a stroke of genius. By owning this small yet crucial piece of land, Eddie Jordan maintained control over who could access the team’s factory.
The new owners quickly realized what had happened when they attempted to fully take over operations. Despite purchasing the team, they now found themselves in an unusual predicament—every time they wanted to bring cars, personnel, or even deliveries into the factory, they needed Eddie Jordan’s permission. This put him in a position of power, forcing Midland to negotiate further just to gain unrestricted access to their own headquarters.
A Legacy of Business Acumen
This move was classic Eddie Jordan—bold, unexpected, and highly strategic. While many team owners have exited Formula 1 without much leverage, Jordan ensured he still had a hold over his former empire. It was a testament to his deep understanding of business and negotiations, proving that he was not just a charismatic team boss but also a sharp businessman who knew how to get the best deal possible.
Eventually, the issue was resolved, but not without Midland learning a valuable lesson about the importance of reading the fine print. The team would later transition into Spyker, then Force India, before eventually becoming the modern-day Aston Martin F1 Team. However, those who were around at the time still recall how Eddie Jordan managed to have the last laugh, even after selling his team.
The Rebel Who Redefined F1 Team Ownership
Eddie Jordan’s career in Formula 1 is filled with stories of risk-taking, out-of-the-box thinking, and unforgettable moments. His ability to challenge the establishment and play the game on his own terms made him a unique figure in the sport. The driveway clause incident is just one of many examples of how he used his wit and business instincts to stay ahead, even in an environment as cutthroat as Formula 1.
Though he stepped away from team ownership, Jordan remains a beloved figure in F1, known for his insights as a pundit and his ever-present rock ‘n’ roll spirit. But for those who remember his time as a team boss, stories like this serve as a reminder that Eddie Jordan was always one step ahead of the competition—on and off the track.
