Africa is not known for its pilots, cars or motorcyclists. However, several world champions, sometimes forgotten, were born in these latitudes. Even though they are rare, their presence cannot be forgotten. Here are the 10 greatest African pilots of all time.
The rules and honorable mentions have already been clarified in the
part XNUMX of this article. Places #10 and #9 have been revealed in
the article can be found here.
No. 8: Alan North (1953-)
Born into a family very fond of motor sports,
Alan North grows to Durban en
South Africa. He set foot on the stirrup for his 16th birthday, first on simple 50cc. It did not take long for his talent to be noticed and this private quickly emigrated to Europe. All alone to do his mechanics, he surprised the paddock with his speed and his sympathy during the 1976 exercise.
Very fast, it attracts a good number of sponsors and the big
Mike Hailwood he himself decides to help the young rising star financially. During the 1977 Nations Grand Prix, he won his one and only race in the 350cc category, his preferred engine size.
Unfortunately, during the winter, he was involved in a road accident on a dirt bike. His leg, severely damaged, will not allow him to return to his previous level. A sad end to his career for enormous potential, often remembered by his brother-in-law Jon Ekerold (which we'll talk about later). He therefore ranks eighth in this ranking, just behind a compatriot well known to fans.
The great Alan North. Photo: Henry Ten Dam.
No. 7: Brad Binder (1995-)
After talking about his brother Darryn in 10th position, it's Brad's turn to make his introduction in the ranking. No need for extensive presentations: Binder was titled world champion Moto3 in 2016, with style, by achieving the feat of winning a race while starting last during the Spanish Grand Prix. Successful transition to Moto2 for pure product KTM, who finished third then vice-world champion in 2018 and 2019.
His rookie year, still with the Austrian manufacturer, was marked by a surprise victory at Brno, far ahead of all competition. This year again, Brad distinguished himself at
Spielberg playing the tightrope walker. Two victories in the premier category are no small thing. However, seventh place can be explained in several ways. First of all, Brad, like
Miguel Oliveira can win a race like finishing 11th. This irregularity (less marked than last year) holds him back somewhat. Then, he is still young and there is no doubt that he will free himself from several positions in the years to come if his work continues to pay off. In the meantime, the elders always have priority.
That's all for today ! See you tomorrow for places no. 6 and no. 5 in this ranking.
Photo: Michelin Motorsport
Cover photo: Michelin Motorsport
