Five-time FIM World Motocross Champion and all-time motocross legend, Eric Geboers, has drowned in a tragic accident near Mol, Belgium, he was 55 years-old.
Mr. Geboers, called the Kid, was attempting to rescue a drowning dog on Sunday evening, the 6th of May. Geboers was reportedly sailing when he jumped into a lake near Mol, Belgium, to rescue the animal but never resurfaced. Search and rescue teams worked through the night before resuming the search Monday morning when Police rescue divers located the body of the Belgian motocross star.
Geboers role in motocross has left a positive and long-lasting impact on both the sport and the community which he worked with. Racing for Factory Suzuki from 1979-1984 Geboers achieved the title of 125cc FIM World Champion in back to back years, 1982 and 1983.
In 1984 Geboers moved to the Honda team where he would win the 250cc FIM World Championship in 1987 and the 500cc World Championship in both 1988 and 1990 making him the first ever racer crowned World champion in all three classes, 125cc, 250cc, and 500cc.
Since his retirement from professional racing Geboers has worked to organize the Grand Prix of Belgium at Namur and more recently the MXGP of Belgium at Lommel. In addition he has worked with the Belgian government to encourage the growth of motocross in the country alongside colleagues Joels Smets and Stefan Everts. Geboers also managed the Suzuki factory racing effort with his brother Sylvain for several years furthering the careers of riders such as Clement Desalle and Kevin Strijbos.
Our thoughts are with Eric’s family and friends during this tough time.
Photo Credit: Steve Bauerschmidt