Another American Gets Inducted Into The MotoGP Legends Hall of Fame

He has never won a title, but the echo of his importance in the world of motorcycle racing still rings through today. 58-year-old American Grand Prix racer Randy Mamola will be inducted into the MotoGP Legends Hall of Fame, joining other Americans on the induction list such as Wayne Rainer, Eddie Lawson, Kenny Roberts, Kenny Roberts Jr., Kevin Schwantz, Freddie Spencer and the late Nicky Hayden.

(Image: MotoGP)

 

This will be done during the Americas GP in April 22 at the Circuit of Americas in Austin, Texas for the third round of the 2018 MotoGP Championship.

(Image: MotoGP)

 

During his years racing in the former 500cc class (1979-1992), Mamola claimed 13 wins, and finished runner-up four times: 1980, 1981, 1984 and 1987. He rode Suzuki, Honda, Cagiva and Yamaha machinery.

After retiring in 1992, Mamola became a test rider for Yamaha, and then TV commentator for Grand Prix races. He also co-founded Riders for Health, which helps deliver health care to desolate regions for African countries.

“I didn’t expect it but it was a pleasant surprise to start my day when I got the call,” said Mamola. “When I told my wife and son, as you can imagine it was huge congratulations but then ‘Oh no! Now we have to live with a legend!’”

“MotoGP is my life and I’ve been in the paddock for 39 years. I’ve seen so many things from when I was first in the paddock at 19 and it’s an honor and a privilege for me to be included in such a high level group of riders.

(Image: MotoGP)

 

“I’m also excited I’ll be inducted in Texas with my family and friends coming. After the ‘wow!’, eventually you have to absorb what it is, and then you think about how this is such an honor to be accepted by your peers as well as the people who have run Dorna for the past 25 years.

“I hope somewhere along the line I am able to pay this back even more with the work I continue to do in the paddock. I believe and I think I’m the first Legend who has never been a World Champion. I think the accomplishments I’ve had and being a such a part of charity work is another part to add. Spreading the sport, supporting the sport…you are an ambassador whether that’s the title you have or not. It’s a privilege to work in the paddock and I don’t take it lightly.”