MICHAEL Rutter has been honoured by the Macau government with a waxwork figure by Madame Tussauds. The replica of the racer is now on display at the Macau Grand Prix museum.
The waxwork has been revealed in honour of Rutter’s nine wins at the fabled event, and sees the Staffordshire-born Isle of Man TT, roads and BSB racer joins the likes of Ayrton Senna, Sebastian Vettel, and Ron Haslam.
Rutter’s victories at the venue (the first of which came in 1998!) makes him the most successful motorcycle racer ever to compete at the event, a feat that will take some matching in the modern era. Coincidentally, the Macau Grand Prix museum opened in 1993, the very same year that Rutter raced his first full season in the British Superbike Championship.
Speaking about the unveiling, Rutter said:
“First of all, I’d like to say a big thank you to the Macau Government for acknowledging my record at the Macau GP. It’s always nice to be recognised by an organiser for the time and effort that goes into being able to compete over such a long period of time, as well as any success that’s achieved along the way.
The Macau circuit is a place that I just seem to have clicked with early on, and I really enjoy racing there. It’s totally unique and unlike anywhere else that I’ve raced around the world.
I’ve been lucky enough to have raced there with some fantastic teams and great race bikes, so this is as good a time as any to say thanks to everyone who has helped me along the way, as well as the many sponsors who have put their hands in their pockets since 1993.
As for the wax work itself, it’s scary just how life like it is. The skill and attention to detail is off the chart.
I can’t deny or confirm rumours that I might have tried to persuade Madame Tussauds to go easy on the grey hairs and wrinkles - that’ll stay between them and me. However, I've been reliably told that my ears and nose really are that big!!
Seriously though, it’s a huge honour for me, and to see just how much time and effort has gone into the project, it is genuinely very humbling”.
