It is with great sadness that we have to report the passing of the American motorcycle champion Nicky Hayden (Red Bull Honda World Superbike Team) following a cycling incident along the Riviera di Rimini on Wednesday 17 May.
Nicky was involved in a collision with an automobile whilst out training and was taken directly to a local hospital. Following close examination, he was then taken to the Cesena hospital for further treatment and possible surgery.
Every effort was made to provide Nicky with the best possible care, but on Monday 22nd May it was announced he had succumbed to his injuries.
Known as the Kentucky Kid, Nicky burst on to the world scene in 2003 just one year after he was crowned AMA Superbike Champion. Securing two podiums in his opening season, he took his debut victory in 2005 at Laguna Seca and sensationally reached his dream of being crowned FIM MotoGP World Champion in 2006. After making the move to the World Superbike Championship in 2016, Nicky stood on the podium three times for Honda, including his debut victory at the Sepang International Circuit.
The FIM and Dorna WSBK Organisation extend their condolences to Nicky Hayden’s family, friends and team.
