The 125cc World Championship was set to be a duel between two Italians, but Michele Rinaldi crashed at the opening GP in Vittorio Veneto and had to be taken to hospital with a shoulder injury. He underwent surgery and subsequently missed three GPs. He was back at the start of the fifth GP in Schefflenz, where he scored points and went on to win nine more races. However, Corrado Maddi remained equally alert and maintained his comfortable 30-point lead until the start of the final Grand Prix in Ettelbrück, Luxembourg. In a dramatic season finale, Michele was crowned world champion, Suzuki's tenth world championship title.

Last year's runner-up Michele Rinaldi, now riding the big Gilera, raised high expectations, especially in Italy. Like Nani, Perfini, and Rahier before him, Michele Rinaldi decided against the Bicilindra.

Michele Rinaldi, who is focusing on the World Championship, remains in fourth place in the national championship behind his Gilera teammate Michele Margarotto.

A huge success for the small Italian brand TGM and Michele Rinaldi. A fantastic season with three race wins, including both races at his home GP in Montevarchi, made him Michele Nazionale. The first Italian to win a GP in Italy. He missed out on the world championship title by just a few points. Chief technician Silvano Bigna and engine specialist IIller Aldini played a major role in this success.

Michele Rinaldi wins the 125cc Italian Junior Championship on a TGM

The 17-year-old talent Michele Rinaldi receives a wildcard for the home GP in Livorno. With 10th place in the second race, he scores his first World Championship point.