Tributes pour in for motorsport legend following death after short illness: ‘A real character and prodigious talent’
- Anthony Gobert has died at the age of 48
- Tributes have poured in for the popular former racer
- Gobert was a prodigious talent, but fell victim to an addiction
The motorsport world has paid tribute to Anthony Gobert following his death at the age of 48.
On Wednesday, the Australian’s family announced the tragic news on social media after he was admitted to palliative care with an unknown illness.
“My heart breaks as I write this as my firstborn, beautiful son Anthony passed away late this afternoon,” his mother said in a statement.
‘I loved him from the moment he was born until the day I die.
“At times he was challenging, to say the least, but he always had a good heart and cared for everyone.
Tributes were paid to Anthony Gobert after his death
Gobert died on Wednesday after a short illness
“Unfortunately, he was a victim of an addiction that runs deep in our families. He tried many times to get better, but he didn’t quite succeed.
‘I am so proud of him and thank all those good people who contributed to his life. You know who you are.’
And unsurprisingly, tributes have come for the larger-than-life character, as motorsport mourns a life lost too young.
World Superbikes said: ‘The WorldSBK paddock extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Anthony Gobert.
‘The Go Show’ was an eight-time race winner and stood on the WorldSBK podium 16 times in his career.
“Ride in peace, Anthony.”
The British Superbike Championship added: ‘We are saddened to hear of the death of Anthony Gobert and send our condolences to his family, friends and fans.
‘Anthony made six memorable appearances, including a fourth-place finish at Brands Hatch during the 2000 BSB season with Team Virgin Mobile Yamaha, replacing the late Steve Hislop when he was sidelined through injury.’
“Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Anthony Gobert, an exceptionally talented motorcycle racer with a career full of accolades that many could only dream of,” said a fan on Twitter.
Another added: ‘Anthony Gobert was always entertaining, both on and off the bike. A true character and a wonderful talent who endured some difficult times in his later life. RIP Go show.”