For many, the name Steve Whitelock might not be a name you know, but if you have followed the sport long enough, he was an important figure throughout the world and also in the golden era of 500cc GP racing.

Universally known as "Big Steve" in the paddock, was an influential figure in motorcycle racing history. His career spanned several decades, during which he served as a mechanic, team manager, and technical official across FIM Motocross Grand Prix (GP), World Superbike, and AMA Supercross/Motocross.

Whitelock passed away on October 20, 2026. His history within Motocross GPs and broader world championships is defined by team mastery and hard-nosed rule enforcement.

Mid-1970s - Motocross GP Mechanic

Worked as a mechanic for Dutch motocross pioneer Pierre Karsmakers during select 500cc Motocross World Championship (GP) rounds. Under his mechanical care, Karsmakers won the 1975 Canadian 500cc GP round.

Late 1970s - Honda GP Team Manager & FIM Jury

Managed the Honda factory GP motocross team. During the 1977 British 500cc Grand Prix at Farleigh Castle, Whitelock served on the FIM Jury. Convinced that Bob Wright's works CCM bike was oversized, he physically wrestled with mechanic John Baynham to seize and measure the bike, resulting in Baynham famously punching him. He later managed GP greats like Brad Lackey and Graham Noyce.

1983–1990 - HRC Japan / European Teams

Transitioned to an executive role with Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) in Japan and Europe. He oversaw the golden era of extravagance in Honda's racing department and spearheaded GP motocross programs that yielded multiple world titles with riders like Dave Thorpe, Andre Malherbe, and Eric Geboers.

1990s - FIM Technical Director

Left Honda to join the FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) as the Technical Director for the World Superbike Championship (WSBK), moving his expertise from off-road to road racing.

2003–2008 - AMA Motocross/Supercross Series Manager

Returned to the United States to take total control of AMA professional racing. He oversaw the volatile transition from two-stroke to four-stroke machinery and implemented controversial track prep rules to intentionally leave tracks rough and slow them down for rider safety.