Anthony Gobert, a former AMA Pro, World Superbike, and 500cc Grand Prix racer, died at the age of 48.
Australian racing legend Gobert, who became the youngest rider to win a World Superbike event, was hospitalized with an
unidentified illness and undergoing palliative care.
The gifted rider was a fan favorite, but struggled with addiction issues throughout his career, leading to losing his seat with the Suzuki
factory 500cc Grand Prix squad after failing a drug test in 1997.
“My heart is breaking as I write this, as my firstborn beautiful son Anthony died late this afternoon,” his mother Suzanne Gobert
tweeted on social media.
“I adored him from the minute he was born till my death. He was difficult to work with at times, but he always had a good heart and
cared about everyone. Unfortunately, he was a victim of addiction, which runs deep in our family.
“He tried several times to improve, but he couldn’t exactly do it. I am so proud of him and grateful to everyone who has enriched his
life. You know who you are.
Throughout his career, which lasted from 1994 to 2006, Gobert finished on the podium in events all around the world.
He won the final leg of the Speedway World Cup season at Phillip Island in 1994, making him the youngest race winner in World
Superbike history at the age of 19. Yuichi Takeda beat the record two years later.
World Superbikes paid tribute on social media, saying: “The WorldSBK paddock extends its heartfelt condolences to Anthony Gobert’s family and loved ones.
“‘The Go Show’ won eight races and finished on the WorldSBK podium 16 times during his career.
“Ride in Peace, Anthony.”
The British Superbike Championship said, “We are heartbroken to hear that Anthony Gobert has died and extend our sympathies to
his family, friends, and fans.
“Anthony made six memorable appearances including a fourth place at Brands Hatch during the 2000 BSB season with Team Virgin
Mobile Yamaha, replacing the late Steve Hislop when he was sidelined through injury.”
