Freddie Williams
Freddie Williams born 12 March 1926 is a former motorcycle speedway rider from Wales who was World Champion on two occasions. He was the winner of the Speedway World Championship in 1950 and 1953 and runner-up in 1952.
Williams grew up in Port Talbot, where he was a classmate of Richard Burton, and they played together in the school rugby team. In 1941 he moved to Portsmouth where he started an apprenticeship in the dockyards as an engineer-fitter. He was a despatch rider in World War II, and began his speedway career as the war ended, initially competing in grasstrack.
Williams rode for the Wembley Lions for his entire career, from 1947 until 1956. Williams became the first British rider to win two World titles (in 1950 and 1953), a feat only matched by Peter Craven a decade later.
Williams represented England in test match series, gaining his first cap in 1949.
In 1952 he married Olympic skater Pat Devries.
World Final appearances
Freddie Passed away 21st January 2013 aged 86 years old.
For more information click here
Williams grew up in Port Talbot, where he was a classmate of Richard Burton, and they played together in the school rugby team. In 1941 he moved to Portsmouth where he started an apprenticeship in the dockyards as an engineer-fitter. He was a despatch rider in World War II, and began his speedway career as the war ended, initially competing in grasstrack.
Williams rode for the Wembley Lions for his entire career, from 1947 until 1956. Williams became the first British rider to win two World titles (in 1950 and 1953), a feat only matched by Peter Craven a decade later.
Williams represented England in test match series, gaining his first cap in 1949.
In 1952 he married Olympic skater Pat Devries.
World Final appearances
- 1950 - London, Wembley Stadium - Winner - 14pts
- 1951 - London, Wembley Stadium - 9th - 7pts
- 1952 - London, Wembley Stadium - 2nd - 13pts
- 1953 - London, Wembley Stadium - Winner - 14pts
Freddie Passed away 21st January 2013 aged 86 years old.
For more information click here
