Phil Read, seven-time motorcycle grand prix champion, has died

Phil Read, the first rider to win grand prix world championships in the 125cc, 250cc and 500cc classes, has died at the age of 83.

Peter McLaren

07 Oct 2022

The Englishman won a total of seven world titles and 52 grands prix between 1963-1976, riding Yamahas to title glory in 125 and 250cc before becoming premier-class champion with MV Agusta in 1973 and 1974.

The following statement has been released by the Read family:

‘It is with incredible sadness that the Read family reports the passing of Phil Read MBE while peacefully asleep on the morning of October 6th, 2022, at his home in Caterbury, England.

‘Phil is best known for winning Yamaha’s first world championship title in 1964 with four more Yamaha-mounted titles including one fought as a privateer, plus two premier class 500cc world championships in 1973 and 1974 for the Italian MV Agusta marque.

‘Often a controversial and outspoken figure, his prolific racing career included 52 FIM Grand Prix wins and eight wins at the iconic Isle of Man TT Races. In 2002 he was granted the status of “MotoGP Legend" by Dorna.

‘Phil is survived by his sons Michael, Graham, Phil Jr, Roki and daughter Esme’.

'Further details on any public celebrations of life will be shared.’

FIM statement:

‘Phillip William Read MBE - 1 January 1939 – 6 October 2022

‘The FIM is sad to announce the sudden and recent passing of seven-times FIM Grand Prix Road Racing World Champion Phillip William Read at the age of eighty-three years old.

‘Nicknamed ‘The Prince of Speed’, Read was the first man to win World Championships in the 125cc, 250cc and 500cc classes. Phil won his first title in 1964 and then followed it up with another 250 championship the following year.

‘However, his best-ever season was perhaps in 1968 when he won both the 125 and 250 championships in the same season. He also went on to secure back-to-back 500cc title wins in 1973 and 1974.

‘A true character on and off the track, Phil will be missed by all that knew and met him. The entire FIM Family extends its condolences to his family and many friends at this sad and difficult time.’

Crash.net also sends its condolences to the family and friends of Phil Read.