Marco Simoncelli Tribute
The San Carlo Honda Gresini team confirmed it will be present at the 2011 MotoGP Championship finale in Valencia, although it wasn’t confirmed if Marco Simoncelli’s teammate Hiroshi Aoyama will race.
The Honda MotoGP team will assemble its usual box at the Valencia circuit, displaying the San Carlo Gresini RC212V displaying the number 58 in tribute to Simoncelli, who passed Sunday following a crash at Sepang.
Team owner Fausto Gresini says the team has received many messages from fans of Marco Simoncelli. The team released a statement Tuesday, saying: "Thanks for the love shown to Marco. The star of "Super Sic" will shine forever in heaven! From Marco’s family and the team, thank you."
Aoyama also commented about the passing of Simoncelli on his personal blog Monday.
Hiroshi Aoyama (San Carlo Honda Gresini MotoGP) says: "My teammate Marco crashed during the race yesterday. He was fighting hard for his life but unfortunately he passed away. I can not think of any words to describe this tragic loss."
"He has been my rival since the 250cc’s and since we both started in MotoGP class, I could feel the tension in between us and we were always aware of each other as rookies. And now, we have been competing in the same championship as a team mate. He is such an openhearted person, no matter where he is.
"I know everyone had a high expectation of him since he has been performing so well. He is loved by so many people and I know why. Last week he came second and was on the podium. And this week again he was so powerful on his bike.. but why..? How..? That is all I can think right now."
"I would like to give my condolences to Marco’s family, fans, teams and staff."
"Rest in peace Marco."
For a tribute bio of Marco Simoncelli, click here.
