Phil Read dead at 83: Seven-time motorcycle GP world champion and ‘Prince of Speed’ passes away as tributes pour in
PHIL READ has died aged 83, his family have confirmed.
The seven-time motorcycle GP world champion died peacefully in his sleep yesterday.
In a statement posted online, the Read family paid tribute to the much-beloved former racer.
It read: “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 Canterbury, 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.”
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