Taking MotoGP by a storm, Mick Doohan was particularly known for his five consecutive title wins and his loyalty towards Honda. This exceptional Australian, began his career in Superbikes, and soon became a strong contender, owing to his speed and determination. His trademark style of hanging his lower body off the side of the bike, was as eye catching as his skill. At the age of 23 Doohan moved up to the World Championship, in 1989, and had fellow Aussie and MotoGP legend Wayne Gardner.
Doohan’s maiden season was quite impressive and produced some promising early results. His tyre-smoking rear wheel steering was particularly noted and in 1990 Doohan claimed his first premier class win at Hungary. Within two years, Doohan was seen as a strong contender for the championship title.
Despite having been in only a few crashed, Doohan sustained some serious injuries in his career. During his Australian GP debut in 1989, he ground his hand to the bone and in 1992 after a crash during practice at Assen, he nearly had to get his left leg amputated. This accident caused him to step out of the sport for awhile, which resulted in Wayne Rainey winning the title, despite a premature but brave comeback from Doohan.
After this period, Doohan never managed to get back into top form in 1993, but 1994 saw him blaze across the series. He lost out on the lead after an accident in Jerez in 1999 left him with a broken leg, which eventually led to his retirement.
A career defined by uncommon loyalty and exceptional talent, Doohan left with 12 wins from 15 in 1997, and spectacular duels with legends such as Max Biaggi in 1998 and Alex Criville in 1996, en route to wining five consecutive premier class titles.
