racing Legend Juan Manuel Bordeu Dies, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Speed, Family, and Unity
Buenos Aires, Argentina – Juan Manuel Bordeu, a celebrated figure in Argentine motorsports and a man deeply devoted to his family, has passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy spanning decades. Known affectionately as “Maneco,” Bordeu captivated fans with his skill on the track and charmed those who knew him with his quiet loyalty and unifying spirit.
Bordeu’s racing career flourished during Argentina’s golden age of motorsport. He retired from racing in 1973 after a final race at the Zapala circuit, transitioning to a life dedicated to the countryside, leadership roles within the Automóvil Club Argentino (ACA), and public service. He served as president of the Juan Manuel Fangio Foundation and as undersecretary of Sports and recreation for the province of Buenos Aires.
but beyond the accolades and the speed, Bordeu was a family man. He met his wife in a Recoleta bar, a chance encounter sparked by recognizing acquaintances accompanying her. Their relationship blossomed, leading to marriage and the birth of two daughters, Patricia and Elena, in 1981 and 1984 respectively. ”Dad passed on to me the love of country life, and today for my children it is indeed the best plan to share that place with their cousins and do the same things that we did as children. It’s very nice!” Patricia recalled.
Fernando,considered another son by Bordeu,spoke of the deep connection they shared. “He made me feel as son and as a part as anyone else. He had that ability to be the factotum that united everyone, in ‘La Peregrina’,” fernando stated. Bordeu even initiated adoption procedures for Fernando, though they were never completed.
In the mid-1990s, Bordeu received an unexpected diagnosis, leading to hospitalization. Remarkably, his seven children, his wife, and his ex-wives rallied around him. His son, Juan Cruz, described the scene in a book about Bordeu’s life: “Juan Manuel united all his loved ones through that peace that he transmitted. He wanted to see us all together. Before he died he had that vision and we put the body in it.”
Bordeu was remembered by friends as an introverted and quiet man, fiercely loyal to those he held dear. A photograph shows him alongside fellow racing enthusiast Charly Menditeguy, a testament to the camaraderie that defined his life.
