The Sunday Ride Classic, an unmissable event stormed by enthusiasts, is back on the weekend of May 18 and 19, 2024 for an edition which already promises to be exceptional; with Didier de Radiguès for the very first time. From year to year, the nectar of old motorcycles comes together at the no less legendary Paul Ricard, in the Var, to celebrate our favorite machines. And, good news, the ticket office is open!
The Belgian legend
This is the perfect opportunity to look back on the career of Didier de Radiguès, one of the emblematic drivers of the 1980s, but not only that. Born in Louvain, he began motorcycle racing at world level during the 1980 season, then in a few rounds in 250cc. Very talented, he distinguished himself during the 1981 season on Johnson-Yamaha, before joining the brilliant Alain Chevallier.
It was on the creations of the latter that he revealed himself to the eyes of the world in 1982. In 250cc as in 350cc, Didier de Radiguès becomes one of the major forces on the board. In the last of these categories, he even finished vice-world champion behind Anton Mang, his best career result.
Didier de Radiguès, photographed by Laurence de Radiguès.
Having moved to 500cc, the premier category, he quickly found the Chevalliers Elf, with which he demonstrates great regularity in performance – one of his greatest qualities. Then, in the second half of the decade, he often changed machines, becoming a factory driver on the difficult Cagiva, with which he recorded more than decent results. He was also an official Yamaha in 1988, before returning to 250cc for two consecutive seasons with Aprilia.
In 1991, he returned to 500cc at Suzuki alongside Kevin Schwantz, just before stopping touring the Continental Circus paddocks as a driver. Unfortunately, he was never able to win in 500cc. His victory at the 250 1983cc Belgian Grand Prix, starting from pole, remains a great moment in Belgian motorcycling sport.
But that's not all ! From, Didier de Radiguès multiplies diverse and varied experiences. He was seen at the 24 Hours of Le Mans four times from 1998 to 2002, with Wayne Gardner and Philippe Gache as his teammate during his first experience at Le Mans. Winner of the 24 Hours of Spa Francorchamps, renowned photographer, driver manager, consultant… it is difficult to list all his lives.
But you will be able to see him at the Sunday Ride Classic 2024, on May 18 and 19 at Paul Ricard, on a 350cc Chevallier. So don't hesitate!
Find the SRC on social networks:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SundayRideClassic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sundayrideclassic/?hl=fr
Ticket office: click here.
The Rikey & Scott of Didier de Radiguès, Philippe Gache and Wayne Garnder at the 24 1998 Hours of Le Mans. Photo: Martin Lee
