Max Deubel
Record breaker and sidecar racing icon: Max Deubel shaped the history of motorcycle racing like no other. An outstanding racer with an unwavering will to win and technical finesse, he became a legend on the world's racetracks. Born on the 5th of February 1935 in Wiehl, Germany, Deubel is now celebrating his 90th birthday - and we are taking a look back at his memorable life.
Between 1961 and 1964, he and his co-driver Emil Hörner won four World Championship titles in the sidecar class and were runners-up twice. Five German Championships and three victories on the Isle of Man, the world's toughest road race, rounded off his impressive record.
Together with Emil Hörner, Deubel set new standards. In 1962, they were the first team to break the 90 mph barrier on the demanding Isle of Man TT course. The unmistakable duo became affectionately known as the 'Max & Moritz' team and also provided innovative advertising for the Boxer machines from Munich.
Deubel's success was based not only on his driving skills, but also on his deep technical understanding. His ability to optimise the technology of his machines for track conditions and his involvement in the development of sidecars contributed greatly to his success.
He embarked on his racing career in 1955 with a second-hand Walter Schneider sidecar, a BMW RS 54, and worked his way up the ranks. In 1960, the BMW factory team provided him with a former Schneider-BMW, a BMW-engined sidecar specially modified for racing and previously developed by World Champion Walter Schneider - a decisive turning point in Deubel's career.
After retiring from active racing in 1966, Deubel remained loyal to motorsport and became involved as a FIM official. His association with the Rudolf Bald Foundation and its BMW exhibition shows that his connection with the BMW brand continues to this day. In 2015 he was inducted into the FIM Hall of Fame for his outstanding achievements.
We congratulate Max Deubel on his 90th birthday and pay tribute to his impressive contribution to motorcycle racing.
