2006 MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden has succumbed to the injuries he sustained in a cycling accident last week. He was 35.
Hayden was training near the town of Rimini when he collided with a car, and was rushed to hospital in Cesena, where he was diagnosed with severe brain damage, along with chest injuries.
Further updates confirmed that Hayden’s clinical situation had not improved, with his condition “very critical” and the hospital announced on Monday afternoon that he passed away as a result of his injuries.
His fiancée Jackie, mother Rose and brother Tommy were at his side.
"On behalf of the whole Hayden family and Nicky’s fiancée 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," said Tommy Hayden in a statement.
“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."
Hayden stepped up to MotoGP with Repsol Honda in 2003 and enjoyed a successful period with the outfit, claiming three victories and the 2006 world title, edging Valentino Rossi in a dramatic finale.
Hayden never took another win in the premier class but continued to rack up podium finishes, his last coming with Ducati in 2011, having transferred across to the team for 2009.
Hayden’s final years in MotoGP were spent with Aspar, before he moved back to World Superbikes for 2016, with Honda, returning to the top step of the podium in Malaysia.
Hayden also made two appearances in MotoGP last year, substituting for injured riders at Marc VDS and Repsol Honda, reuniting with the team 10 years after his title triumph.
Motorsport Week extends its condolences to the family and friends of Hayden.
RIP, ‘Kentucky Kid.’
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