Former Grand Prix Team Owner Dies

Bob MacLean was the team owner of the Red Bull Yamaha WCM team and oversaw five Grand Prix wins in the premier class.

MacLean was in charge of the Independent team when it came into existence during the 1992 500cc campaign, while Peter Clifford was hired as team manager.

Five years later, MacLean’s team was offered full factory-spec Yamaha YZR500 bikes as it signed a title-sponsorship deal with Red Bull. Simon Crafar, who has stepped into the role of race director in MotoGP for 2025, took the team’s first victory at Donington Park in 1998.

Regis Laconi claimed the team’s second win the following season at Valencia, however, it was the 2000 season which was the team’s most successful in the world championship as Garry McCoy took three wins for the team.

The new four-stroke era in 2002 marked a huge shift although McCoy and team-mate John Hopkins continued to race two-stroke Yamaha bikes due to limited supply.

MacLean, aged 87 at the time of his death, passed away in Wilson, Wisconsin on 14 December, 2024.

A statement published on Road Racing World reads: ‘Robert John MacLean (Bob), devoted husband, father, and educator passed away peacefully at his home in Wilson, Wyoming on December 14, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on February 18, 1937, in Coronado, California to Robert John MacLean and Mary Witty MacLean. Bob led a life marked by deep commitment to education, sports, and community.

‘…After many years of racing motorcycles himself, Bob founded World Championship Motorsports in 1991, of which he was the co-owner/ operator until 2005. WCM competed at the highest level of International Motorsports in the FIM Grand Prix Motorcycle series. His entrepreneurial spirit, like his commitment to education and athletics, was a testament to his talent as a leader.

'Bob was deeply involved in the community, notably serving on the Board of South Kent School from 1990 to 1999, including as President from 1995 to 1999, where his leadership and generosity helped shape the school’s future. Bob was also an active board member of the Teton County Sheriff’s Auxiliary for over two decades and served on the New York Board of the Shakespeare Globe.

‘In Wilson, Wyoming, Bob found peace and fulfillment in his love of fly fishing and spending time on his ranch. A supporter of local causes, he contributed to organizations such as the Jackson Hole Land Trust and the National Museum of Wildlife Art, reflecting his deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the region.

‘Above all, Bob’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Anna (Marna) MacLean. They raised three sons in Waccabuc, NY and later split their time between Lost Tree Village, Florida and their home in Wilson, Wyoming. Bob is also survived by his three sons, Chris MacLean (Cathryn Kishbaugh), Ian MacLean and Mark MacLean (Marsha Yamaykina) and his five grandchildren.

‘Bob’s love of life, his sense of humor, and positive outlook will be remembered by his friends and family.’

All at Visordown send their best wishes to Bob’s family and friends at this time.

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