Barry Sheene

September 11, 1950 — London, England

Barry Sheene (September 11, 1950 – March 10, 2003) was a British motorcycle racing icon and two-time 500cc Grand Prix World Champion. Born in London, Sheene became known for his daring riding style and charismatic personality, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide during the 1970s. He achieved back-to-back championships in 1976 and 1977, riding for Suzuki and cementing his status as a motorsport legend. Sheene’s career was marked by his resilience; he survived several serious accidents and famously returned to racing with metal plates in his body, earning him a reputation for bravery and toughness. Off the track, he was a larger-than-life character who brought glamour and attention to motorcycle racing with his high-profile lifestyle and media appearances. After retiring in the early 1980s, Sheene moved to Australia, where he continued to be involved in motorsport as a commentator and advisor. He passed away in 2003 due to cancer, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most celebrated figures in motorcycle racing.