Ex-grand prix team owner passes away at aged 87

Former Grand Prix Team Owner Bob MacLean Passes Away at 87

Bob MacLean, the former owner of the Red Bull WCM team, which achieved five victories in the 500cc Grand Prix category, has passed away at the age of 87.

MacLean established the independent WCM team in 1992, with Peter Clifford as the team manager. Initially using ROC chassis with Yamaha engines, the team later received factory-spec YZR500s from Yamaha in 1997 and secured a title sponsorship with Red Bull.

The team’s first Grand Prix win came in 1998 when Simon Crafar triumphed at Donington Park, followed by a victory for Régis Laconi in Valencia in 1999. WCM’s most successful season was in 2000, with Garry McCoy earning three wins and finishing fifth in the world championship. McCoy continued to excel in 2001, achieving three more podiums despite missing several races due to injury.

In 2002, WCM faced challenges with the transition to four-stroke engines. McCoy and new teammate John Hopkins continued with two-strokes due to limited availability of Yamaha’s M1 engines. After Red Bull switched its sponsorship to KTM, WCM attempted to develop its own four-stroke bike based on a modified Yamaha R1 engine, but political issues and other challenges hindered their progress. A planned V6-powered bike in collaboration with Blata never materialized, leading to the team’s absence from the 2006 championship.

In a statement released by Road Racing World, MacLean was remembered as a dedicated husband, father, and community leader. Born in 1937 in Coronado, California, MacLean had a lifelong passion for education, sports, and community involvement. He founded World Championship Motorsports in 1991, leading the team until 2005.

Beyond racing, MacLean served on the board of South Kent School and was involved in several community organizations, including the Teton County Sheriff’s Auxiliary and the New York Board of the Shakespeare Globe. In his later years, he enjoyed fly fishing and contributing to local causes in Wilson, Wyoming.

MacLean is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Anna, their three sons, and five grandchildren. His family and friends will remember his love of life, sense of humor, and positive outlook.