Tributes are flowing for Kiwi speedway champion Ivan Mauger, who has passed away at the age of 78.
Mauger who won six world championships died early this morning.
He had been suffering for several years from a form of dementia.
Speedway New Zealand CEO John McCallum said Mauger was recognised as the greatest speedway racer of all time.
"He was a true New Zealand sporting Icon," said McCallum.
He was born in New Zealand in 1939 and rode for several British teams, including Wimbledon Dons, Newcastle Diamonds, Belle Vue Aces, Exeter Falcons, and the Hull Vikings.
Mauger last raced in Adelaide in 1986 and spent his retirement years on the Gold Coast with his family.
IVAN MAUGER MBE | We are deeply saddened by tonight’s news that Ivan has passed away. He was a pioneer in professionalism ahead of his time. The thoughts of us all at the BSPA are with Ivan’s family at this sad time. pic.twitter.com/9OnTpqqwSq
— SpeedwayGB (@SpeedwayGB) April 15, 2018
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