Legendary racer Luigi Taveri has died

Luigi Taveri has passed away at the age of 88. Taveri, who won three 125 World Championships in 1962, 1964 and 1966, was the one of the greats of the era and has been described as a “true gentleman”.

Debuting in 1954 in the 500 and 250 World Championships, the Swiss rider scored points and the following year took his first wins – switching to competing in the 125 and 250 categories and a victor in both. Podiums and wins continued through the late 1950s, before a switch to Honda machinery in 1961 ushered in a new era.

Champion in the 125 World Championship in 1962, Taveri would take that crown three times as he returned to the throne in both 1964 and 1966 – retiring as the reigning Champion thereafter.

Competing on 50cc, 125cc, 250cc, 350cc and 500cc machinery throughout his career – as well as in Sidecars – Taveri is the only man to have scored points in all six classes, adding to his unique legacy.