Video: A look back at Stefan Everts career

In every sport you get those that rise to the top, to claim the crown time after time after time. Sometimes, though, you get a sportsman or – woman whose achievements are so phenomenal that they transcend their own discipline, gaining recognition as one of the greatest of all time.

Stefan Everts is such a sportsman. The Belgian motocross racer’s record makes for jaw-dropping reading. Ten world titles and 101 Grand Prix victories are numbers that are unlikely to ever be matched. Add to that the fact that dad Harry had claimed four world titles himself, and son Liam is well on his way to international recognition, and you have a racing family pretty much unmatched in the annals of the sport.

Underpinning this phenomenal success and glamour, though, is a story of tremendous setbacks, internal strife and devastating injuries, that almost led to a premature end to Stefan’s career. He persisted, though, and the story of his successes is writ large. This tribute video looks back upon the years, highlighting ecstatic highs and thuddings lows, all of which make the canvas and paints of a remarkable story.

The song is “Like a Rock” by Bob Seger And The Silver Bullet Band.

Words and video: Tinus Nel