Ángel Nieto remembered for legendary fly‑eating incident and nephew’s heartfelt tribute

Ángel Nieto, the Spanish motorcycle racer who won 13 world championships, 23 Spanish titles and 90 Grand Prix victories, died in a traffic accident on Ibiza in August 2017. A popular story from his career recounts how, during a 250 cc race, a fly entered his helmet and he allegedly swallowed it to keep racing.

Nearly a decade later, his nephew and fellow rider Fonsi Nieto spoke emotionally about the loss on the ninth anniversary of Ángel’s death, saying the champion was more like a father than an uncle. The interview highlighted the enduring impact of Nieto’s achievements and the personal bond he left behind.