Georges Jobé, Belgian motocross racer (d. 2012)

Georges Jobé, born on 6 January 1961 and passing away on 19 December 2012, was an iconic figure in the world of professional motocross. Hailing from Belgium, Jobé distinguished himself as one of the sport's most dominant and enduring competitors, carving out a remarkable career that left an indelible mark on the FIM Motocross World Championships.

A Stellar Motocross Career: Championships and Dominance

Five-Time FIM Motocross World Champion

Jobé’s professional career in the Motocross World Championships spanned from 1979 to 1992, a period of 14 intense seasons where he consistently performed at the highest level. His most notable achievement was securing an impressive five FIM Motocross World Championship titles. These victories showcased his exceptional talent, adaptability across different engine capacities, and unwavering determination. His world championship triumphs include:

His back-to-back 500cc titles in 1991 and 1992 were a testament to his longevity and continued competitiveness even towards the latter part of his career.

Nine-Time Belgian Motocross National Champion

Beyond his global successes, Georges Jobé was also an undisputed master on his home soil, clinching an astounding nine Belgian Motocross National Championship titles. This unparalleled domestic dominance further cemented his status as a national sporting hero and highlighted his consistent performance year after year.

Recognition, Legacy, and Later Life

Belgian Sportsman of the Year

Jobé's exceptional achievements did not go unnoticed in his home country. He was twice honored with the prestigious title of Belgian Sportsman of the Year, first in 1987 following his 500cc World Championship victory, and again in 1992 after securing his fifth and final world title. This award is a significant recognition of his impact and popularity within Belgian sports.

An Iconic Figure and Daring Rider

Georges Jobé was known for his fierce competitiveness and often audacious riding style. One of his most iconic moments occurred at the 1984 Namur Grand Prix, where he famously jumped over his rival André Malherbe, who was cresting a hill. This daring maneuver, known as the "Citadel Jump," perfectly encapsulated Jobé's fearless approach and his willingness to push boundaries in pursuit of victory, solidifying his legend in motocross lore.

Life Beyond Racing

After retiring from professional racing, Jobé remained deeply involved in the motocross community, dedicating his time to coaching young riders and managing teams, sharing his vast experience and passion for the sport. Tragically, he suffered a severe accident during a training session in 2010, which left him paralyzed. Georges Jobé passed away on 19 December 2012, due to complications arising from this accident, leaving behind a profound legacy as one of motocross's all-time greats.

Frequently Asked Questions about Georges Jobé

Who was Georges Jobé?
Georges Jobé was a highly acclaimed Belgian professional motocross racer, widely regarded as one of the sport's legends, known for his five FIM Motocross World Championship titles and nine Belgian national titles.
How many FIM Motocross World Championships did Georges Jobé win?
Georges Jobé won a total of five FIM Motocross World Championships: two in the 250cc class (1980, 1983) and three in the 500cc class (1987, 1991, 1992).
What was Georges Jobé's career span in the Motocross World Championships?
Georges Jobé competed in the Motocross World Championships from 1979 to 1992, a period of 14 successful seasons.
When was Georges Jobé named Belgian Sportsman of the Year?
Georges Jobé was honored as the Belgian Sportsman of the Year twice, in 1987 and again in 1992.
What was a famous moment in Georges Jobé's career?
One of Georges Jobé's most iconic moments was his daring "Citadel Jump" over rival André Malherbe at the 1984 Namur Grand Prix, showcasing his fearless racing style.