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.