The Red Bull Honda World Superbike team will participate in this weekend’s sixth round of the season from Donington Park, as it continues to mourn the loss of Nicky Hayden.
Former MotoGP champion Hayden, also a one-time winner in WorldSBK with Honda, was involved in a collision with a car whilst out cycling in Italy last week and tragically succumbed to his injuries on Monday 22 May.
In a statement released today, the Honda WorldSBK team offered its sympathies to Hayden’s loved ones and announced that it would contest this weekend’s UK round of the 2017 season with Stefan Bradl.
“The Red Bull Honda World Superbike Team offers its most heartfelt condolences to Nicky’s family, his fiancée Jackie, his friends, fans and everyone who has been touched by the passing of one of the racing world’s most loved dons,” the statement read.
“Nicky’s passing has shocked and saddened everyone in the team and we are still coming to terms with this tragedy. However, we will participate in this weekend’s WorldSBK round at Donington in the United Kingdom.”
Marco Chini, WorldSBK Operations Manager for Honda Europe, also expressed his disbelief at Hayden’s sudden passing, adding: “It seems impossible that Nicky is no longer with us. Nicky was not only an outstanding rider, but also a shining example of sporting ethos and professionalism.
“The ‘Kentucky Kid’ perfectly represented the values of the sport and the American school of motorcycling.
“The level of affection and support that the global sport community has shown Nicky demonstrates how much his kind personal and his genuine passion for motorcycling have left a mark in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts and insiders, and his incredible legion of fans around the world.
“It is such a shame we only had 18 months working together, but we have many happy memories during this time.
“Seeing Nicky return to the top step of the podium in Sepang last year was very special, and also his podium at Laguna Seca was a real proud moment as Nicky was always so passionate when racing in front of his home fans.
“Thank yo for everything, Nicky; we will always remember you fondly, and you will be sorely missed.”
Ronald Ten Kate, Honda Team Manager, echoed Chini’s sentiments, and hopes Hayden’s legacy will carry on inspiring young riders.
“This is a huge shock to me, the whole team, the World Superbike paddock and actually the entire racing world,” said the Dutchman.
“We only had the pleasure to work with Nicky for one-and-a-half years, but we came to know him like all his previous teams spoke about him: fanatical about bikes, hard-working, charismatic, but above all he was pure and genuine. He was Nicky!
“He will be missed by all of us and I hope he will be an example for any young rider to reach the top as Nicky did himself. We wish the Hayden family and his fiancée Jackie all the strength they will need. Rest in peace, Nicky Hayden.”
Twitter: RT @MotoGP: “The nicest man in Grand Prix racing”
Thanks for the memories, Nicky. #RideOnKentuckyKid https://t.co/BX4VvGgKWC (@WorldSBK)
Twitter: RT @MarcoMelandri33: Ciao Nicky
(@WorldSBK)
Twitter: RT @alexlowes22: Honoured to have raced together! So much talent on a bike the nicest guy off! Will be hugely missed by everyone! RIP #69 #… (@WorldSBK)
Twitter: RT @stefanbradl: I’m deeply touched and saddened. It was an honor to share the garage with you. My thoughts are… https://t.co/bsNfxrBAUD (@WorldSBK)
Twitter: RT @mickeyvdmark: No words..
Thank you for being such an inspiring team mate.
My thoughts go out to Jackie and… https://t.co/INUkjPJ9Vc (@WorldSBK)
Comments.
Loading comments…