Andreu Labasa, great Derbi promoter and key figure in Angel Nieto’s title, dies

Businessman Andrew Labasa Negre (1931-2022), son of founder Labasa Derby, Simeo Labasa And the great promoter of the aforementioned motorcycle brand passed away this Tuesday at the age of 91. Royal Spanish Motorcycling Federation (RFME).

He was a key figure in the Spanish motorcycle industry as he directly contributed to the growth and consolidation of the brand during his extensive career as president of the company from 1988 to 2000 when he was appointed honorary president.

in sportsAndrew Labasa He was a driving force behind Derbi’s entry. 1967 World Speed ​​Championshipbecoming the first Spanish team to face the World Championship outright, and was a key figure in Angel Nieto’s signing and his many successes with the brand.

According to records from the time, Andrew Lavasa was grandson of an angel During a race held at the circuit in November 1964 Charles III of Barcelona.

On an uncompetitive motorcycle that day, Nieto overtook many of his competitors, Andrew Labasa I saw him and decided to put him on the payroll Derby.

Everything else is world motorcycle history. In five years (1967-72), grandchild Won 5 world titles (50cc and 125cc), Derby 4 as a manufacturer. Until the 1972 crisis.

So Andrew Labasa He ensured the factory’s financial stability by setting aside a large budget to accompany the race to support production and protect the company when the crisis hit.

Despite this, Derby never left the competition entirely, competing in the Spanish Championship until 1984, when he decided to return to the World Cup. Jorge Martinez “Asper” world Santiago ‘Champi’ Hereros And the hits are back.

In 1998 he St. George’s CrossHe was also awarded the Gold Medal for Sports Merit. Spanish Motorcycle Federationinsignia of Gold of the Catalan Motorcycle Federation And Crow in Barcelona.

In 2000, piaggio group absorbed the brand Andrew Labasa He subsequently assumed the position of honorary president of the company. factory in 2013 martorell Production ceased and just a few months ago, in July, the factory was demolished and sold to a British real estate group.