- 2017-05-23
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SPORTS
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The 2006 MotoGP champion Nicky Hayden Dies at 35, after Cycling Accident in Italy
The 2006 MotoGP Champion, Nicky Hayden died at the age of 35 on May 22, 2017.
Last week, he was involved in a crash while cycling on the Rimini coastline in Italy, suffering serious cerebral damage.
He had been in intensive care at the Bufalini hospital in Cesena, but a statement from the hospital said Hayden died on Monday.
His brother Tommy Hayden said;
"On behalf of the whole Hayden family and Nicky's fiance Jackie I would like to thank everyone for their messages of support - it has been a great comfort to us all knowing that Nicky has touched so many people's lives in such a positive way.
Although this is obviously a sad time, we would like everyone to remember Nicky at his happiest - riding a motorcycle.
He dreamed as a kid of being a pro rider and not only achieved that but also managed to reach the pinnacle of his chosen sport in becoming world champion. We are all so proud of that.
Apart from these 'public' memories, we will also have many great and happy memories of Nicky at home in Kentucky, in the heart of the family. We will all miss him terribly.
It is also important for us to thank all the hospital staff for their incredible support - they have been very kind.
With the further support of the authorities in the coming days we hope to have Nicky home soon."
Nicky Hayden started road racing with the CMRA. In 1999, he won the AMA Supersport championship on board a privateer Honda.
He debuted MotoGP in 2003 with Repsol Honda, he finished fifth in the championship points standings, an achievement that won him the Rookie-of-the-Year award.
He won the MotoGP World Championship in 2006 with Repsol Honda Team, beating Camel Yamaha Team rider Valentino Rossi.
He moved to Ducati in 2009 and spent his final two full-time seasons with the Aspar Honda team before switching to the World Superbike Championship with the Japanese firm last year.- source : MotoGP
