MotoGP has always been about speed, competition, and passion. But for a few families, it’s also about legacy. Some racers don’t just pass on their love for racing; they see their sons follow right onto the grid. Here’s a look at the top 4 father-son duos in MotoGP who have left a mark on the racing world. These stories aren’t just about results, but about family tradition and inspiring the next generation on two wheels.
Top 4 Father-Son Duos in MotoGP
1. Kenny Roberts & Kenny Roberts Jr.
Kenny Roberts, also known as “King Kenny,” changed the world of motorcycle racing with his debut in Grand Prix racing in 1978. He became the first American to win the 500cc World Championship, winning three titles in total and developing a unique riding style based on his dirt track background.
Meanwhile his son, Kenny Roberts Jr. made his own mark by winning the 500cc World Championship in 2000. This made them the only father-son duo in MotoGP to win world titles in the premier class.
2. Wayne Gardner & Remy Gardner
Wayne Gardner is the Australian star known as “The Wollongong Whiz.” Wayne made history when he won the 1987 500cc World Championship. He’s remembered for his tough, no-nonsense racing and for helping put Australia on the MotoGP map.
His son, on the other hand, Remy Gardner, captured the Moto2 World Championship. With Remy’s triumph, the Gardners became only the second father-son duo in MotoGP both have won Grand Prix world championships.
3. Ángel Nieto & Pablo Nieto
Ángel Nieto, with his 13 (or as he preferred to call it, “12+1”) World Championships with his son, Pablo, made one of the most iconic father-son duos in MotoGP. Ángel won mostly in the smaller 50cc and 125cc classes and is a legend of Spanish motorcycle racing.
While Pablo Nieto didn’t win nearly as much as his father, he did take a GP victory in Estoril in 2003 and collected several podiums during his time in the 125cc class.
4. Graziano Rossi & Valentino Rossi
Graziano Rossi was an accomplished racer in the late 1970s, securing three Grand Prix wins and gaining a reputation as an entertaining character in the paddock. His son, Valentino Rossi, became one of the greatest riders in MotoGP history, racking up an incredible 9 world titles and 115 premier class victories, making them one of the popular father-son duos in MotoGP.
Also Read: Top 4 Father-Son Duos In F1: Generations At Speed
