Joël Smets about André Malherbe: “The first star of modern motocross”
Yesterday the RTBF spoke with Joël Smets about the death of one of his childhood heroes, André Malherbe. The three-time world champion died on Thursday. He was 66 years old.
"He is a motocross great who has passed away. Today I am very sad. He has played a very important role for motocross, that is clear“, says Smets. “For me, André Malherbe is the icon of a transitional period for motocross. This transitional period between that of Joël Robert and Roger Decoster and that of Georges Jobé and Eric Geboers.
He carried motocross in the early 80's. I was lucky enough to experience several highlights of his career. I was there when he won his first world title. I was 11 years old, I was there with my family in Ettelbrück. For me, this was the first Belgian champion who left me with a real memory that strongly influenced me.”
"André Malherbe was the perfect mix between motocross and the world of movie stars. He had style on and off the court, he was a real personality. After Georges and Eric, this is already the third hero from my youth who has disappeared. It's hard to accept. André has modernized world motocross as a whole,” continues the five-time world champion.
“He brought fashion to the rather rough world of motocross. His influence went far beyond motocross itself. For me he remains the first real star of modern motocross. He was the first to build an image outside of motocross fans."
"What has also always impressed me is the optimism he has always shown after his terrible accident. I often talk about it with people around me. Even after his accident, he remained an example to everyone. He was proof that even in very difficult life circumstances you can still find joy in the little things of everyday life“, Smets concludes about his idol.
Photos: Gino Maes and archive
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