Recent passing of Arthur Lampkin 1938 – 2026

The FIM has been informed of the sad and recent passing of Arthur Lampkin a former FIM Motocross Grand Prix and Trophee des Nations winner during the early 1960’s. Arthur also won a gold medal at the FIM International Six Days of Enduro in 1966 whilst representing Great Britain as well as being victorious at the Scottish Six Days Trial (SSDT) in 1963 and the Scott Trial  in 1960,1961 and 1965. 

The legendary British all round off road rider, who was actually born in Kent – England on 30 May 1938, before moving to Yorkshire three years later, was soon joined by his bothers Alan (aka Sid) and Martin who also both went on to become great motorcyclists in their own rights, with the formidable trio all contributing to make the Lampkin family name renowned the World over. 

Arthur’s eldest son John followed in his father’s tyre tracks and became a FIM Trial World Championship round winner in 1983. Whilst John’s brothers Steve and David did not compete at the highest level, Arthur’s nephew Dougie Lampkin reinforced the family’s standing on the international stage as he went on to win twelve FIM World Trial titles during his reign in the late 1990’s early 2000’s. 

Riding for the factory BSA racing team, Arthur along with his brother Alan enjoyed some epic battles up against fellow legends and compatriots Dave Bickers and Jeff Smith during the 1960’s, which made them household names in their home country with the national broadcaster (BBC) showing the races live on TV on Saturday afternoons. 

During his illustrious career Arthur won seven Grand Prix events and went on to win the 500cc British Motocross Championship in 1959 before following this up in 1961 by also taking the 250cc British title in the same year that he became FIM Vice World Champion in the 250cc class. Arthur recorded back-to-back victories in 1961 and 1962 as member of the British team at the FIM Trophee des Nations. 

Having passed away peacefully with his family close by, Arthur will be fondly remembered for his aggressive riding style on track and his straight talking off the bike. The World of motorcycling has lost a true character who was unique in every way. 

The FIM family extends its deepest condolences to the Lampkin family and his many friends, Arthur will be sorely missed by the entire global motorcycle community.