Motocross enthusiasts will have a lot to celebrate this summer as one of the sport’s all-time greats, Brad Lackey, takes center stage at the 2025 Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, presented by Turn 14 Distribution. The event, hosted by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), will take place from July 25–27 at the legendary Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. Lackey will be honored as this year’s Grand Marshal, adding yet another memorable chapter to his storied racing career.
Widely regarded as a trailblazer in American motocross, Brad Lackey etched his name into the sport’s history during the 1970s and 1980s. He made headlines in 1972 when he captured the AMA 500cc National Motocross Championship during its inaugural season as an independent series, winning five out of eight races that year. But perhaps his most celebrated achievement came a decade later. In 1982, after years of competing against the world’s best, Lackey made history by becoming the first American to win the 500cc World Motocross Championship — a feat that changed the global perception of American motocross talent forever.
Now, decades after that monumental victory, Lackey is returning to the spotlight at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, the AMA’s largest celebration of motorcycling heritage. His presence this year is especially fitting, as the event also marks the 50th anniversary of the Suzuki RM motocross series. Lackey famously rode a factory RN500 — based on the RM design — during his 1982 world championship run, making this year’s celebration even more significant. His title-winning bike from that season will be on display at the event, allowing fans a rare glimpse at the machine that carried him to motocross immortality.
“I’ve been to Vintage Motorcycle Days a few times, and it’s always been a blast,” Lackey said. “But this year is going to be something really special. With the AMA honoring 50 years of the Suzuki RM series — the foundation of the RN500 I won my championship on — it’s meaningful to be part of that celebration. It’s a huge honor to be named Grand Marshal, and I’m looking forward to hanging out with all the vintage racing fans.”
Born in Berkeley, California, Lackey was hooked on motorcycles from a young age. He began riding early in life and was racing by the age of 13, competing in local hare scrambles throughout Northern California. It didn’t take long for his talent to stand out. Just a few years later, he was facing off against elite international riders in prestigious series like the Inter-Am and Trans-AMA.
After dominating the American circuit, Lackey set his sights on Europe, where the heart of international motocross resided. He made the bold move to the GP circuit and steadily climbed the ranks. In 1977, he secured his first Grand Prix win at the British round of the 500cc World Championship and continued to challenge for the title year after year. His perseverance ultimately paid off with the 1982 championship win — a historic triumph for both himself and American motocross.
Now, as he prepares to return to Mid-Ohio for the 2025 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, fans of all ages will have the opportunity to honor his remarkable legacy. Brad Lackey’s story is one of resilience, pioneering spirit, and lasting impact — qualities that continue to inspire riders across generations. His role as Grand Marshal is more than ceremonial; it’s a tribute to a life dedicated to pushing the boundaries of motocross, both in America and around the globe.