Sports Pundit

Angel Nieto

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Born25 Jan 1947 (79 years)
NationalitySpain flagSpain

Angel Nieto changed the face of motorcycle racing with an unbelievable 13 World Championships, a total of 90 Grand Prix wins and an astounding 139 podium positions in categories ranging from the 50cc, 80cc and 125cc, over a career spanning 19 years.

Nieto managed to almost completely dominate the smaller classes, which brings at par with legends such as Valentino Rossi, Giacomo Agostini, Phil Read and Mike Hailwood. His talent and skill were undeniable and his achievements put Spain on the map with regards to motorcycle racing.

Nieto won six of his 13 World Championship titles in the 50cc class and seven in the 125cc category. Another lesser known record Nieto holds is that of earning the most titles with different manufacturers, numbering to five. The manufacturers include Bultaco, Kreidler, Garelli, Derbi and Minarelli.

Apart from his Grand Prix success, Nieto further won Spanish Championships in every class from 50cc till 750cc. An easy and jovial personality made him popular with fans and his talent was without doubt some of the best of its time.