Only 24 years old and set for greatness. Another tragic loss of a sporting hero; Marco Simoncelli. Motor cycling is seen as a dangerous sport and the riders know this, but they gain a huge amount of fun, excitement and adrenaline from doing it. Riding motor cycles at high speeds accidents are going to happen even with the best riders.
The fatal crash occurred when Edwards’ bike ran cleanly into Simoncelli hitting the back of his head taking his helmet off with Rossi catching the edge of the accident. It is very rare for a riders helmet to come clean off, the impact would have been huge. With out a riders helmet they are extremely vulnerable. Simoncelli succumbed to his injuries just 15 minutes after reaching the medical centre.
Before the accident Simoncelli was in 4th place.
Repsol Honda’s Pedrosa said: “In a tragedy like this there is not much to say. I just want to give my condolences to his family and all the people who love him. I’ve been with his father and all we could do was to hug, nothing else matters.
“It was a fatal accident and everybody in the paddock remains in shock.
“Many times we ourselves forget how dangerous this sport can be and when you lose people on the way nothing has any meaning. It’s clear that we all do what we like, what we love, but on days like today nothing matters.”
Tribute’s on Twiter:
“R.I.P Marco… Such an exciting talent lost. My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone involved in MotoGP. Motorsport can be so cruel…” Jenson Button
“R.I.P Marco A special talent that will be missed… Thinking of your loved ones, and all the motogp paddock..mark.” Mark Webber
“RIP Marco Simoncelli ! A great rider and all round nice guy. My thoughts are with all his family & friends. I will never forget today.” Cal Crutchlow
RIP: Marco Simoncelli. 20 January 1987 – 23 October 2011
