2012 FIM Motorcycle Racing Awards

Last weekend, the some of the world's fastest motorcycle racers swapped leathers for suits, these two-wheel champs visiting the Silver and Black room at the Estoril Casino in Portugal for the 2011 FIM Gala Awards.

These awards, which recognize the exploits of the best motorcycle riders in 2011, were hosted by the icons of the sports, such as Carl Fogarty, Iris Kramer, Eric Geboers, Yijro Vesterinene, Angel Nieto, Tony Rickardsson and Giovanni Sala.

Among those rewarded were some standout FIM motorcyclists of 2011 - Carlos Checa, Stefan Bradl, Antonio Cairoli, Toni Bou, Juha Salminen, Greg Hancock, Stephanie Laier, Ludivine Puy, and Laia Sanz.

The big presentations at the FIM Gala, which was hosted by Suzi Perry, were the FIM Rookie of the Year, FIM Woman of the Year and FIM Personality of the Year. The FIM reported that these three awards were voted for by the media, fans, teams, industry and riders via the FIM-LIVE.com website during more recent weeks, with over twelve thousand votes being received in total.

Recieving the Rookie of the Year award was Maciej Janowski, the FIM Speedway Under 21 World Champion. Taking the Woman of the Year award was FIM Women's Trial World Champion Laia Sanz.

And Carlos Checa, who competed on the Althea Ducati in 2011 World Superbike, took the Personality of the Year award, the Spaniard taking the championship after a dominating season.

Vito Ippolito (FIM President) says: "Last year was the first year for the FIM Gala, and whilst it was a great success, the second edition has been even better. It is such a pleasure and honor to have so many FIM World Champions and our extended FIM family all together to share this wonderful evening."

"Even though conditions remain tough in the wider World, motorcycle sport continues to show its strength and provides millions of people across the globe with wonderful entertainment each weekend throughout the season. Tonight we have seen the stars and heroes of the various disciplines collect their prizes in recognition of the skill, bravery and endeavor they show each time they ride. Each winner richly deserves the applause they received."

"Again I must thank the riders and teams for being here tonight, as after their busy schedules I know they will be ready for the winter break. However I think even only its second year, we can all understand the importance of the FIM Gala both for the FIM and for motorcycle sport as a whole."