Marco Simoncelli honoured as MotoGP legend

Marco Simoncelli, the rising star of MotoGP who tragically lost his life in a racing accident at Sepang in 2011, has been inducted as a MotoGP Legend on the opening day of this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix in Mugello.

Simoncelli’s emotional father Paolo accepted a special medal on behalf of his son, who was known to millions of fans around the world as ‘SuperSic’.

The former 250GP world champion became the 21st rider to be given MotoGP Legend status, joining big names like Giacomo Agostini, Mike Hailwood, Kenny Roberts, Barry Sheene, John Surtees, Phil Read and Angel Nieto.

Simoncelli was establishing himself as a constant podium contender in 2011 when he was killed in an accident involving Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards during that year’s Malaysian Grand Prix.

The Italian was carving out a reputation as an aggressive rider, who fans had taken to their heart for his uncompromising approach on track.

He was also gaining huge popularity with a captivating personality off the track and a famous Jimi Hendrix replica mop of hair that made him an instantly recognisable figure.