World Superbike Team has to announce that
Nicky Hayden has succumbed to injuries suf-
fered during an incident while riding his bicycle
last Wednesday.
Nicky passed away at 19:09 CEST this eve-
ning at Maurizio Bufalini Hospital in Cesena,
Italy. His fiancée Jackie, mother Rose and
brother Tommy were at his side.
Throughout his career Nicky's professional-
ism and fighting spirit was greatly valued and
carried him to numerous successes, including
his childhood dream of being crowned MotoGP
World Champion with Honda in 2006. As well as
being a true champion on the track, Nicky was a
fan favourite off it due to his kind nature, relaxed
demeanour, and the huge smile he invariably car-
ried everywhere.
Nothing says more about Nicky's character than
the overwhelming response expressed by fellow
racers and his legions of fans over the past few
days. Jackie and his family are truly grateful for
the countless prayers and well wishes for Nicky.
The 'Kentucky Kid' will be sorely missed by all
that ever had the pleasure of meeting him or the
privilege to see him race a motorcycle around a
track, be it dirt or asphalt.
The racing world says goodbye to one of its
dearest sons. Rest in peace Nicholas 'Nicky' Pat-
rick Hayden.
Hayden's older brother, Tommy, said, "On be-
half of the whole Hayden family and Nicky's fian-
cée 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.
"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 man-
aged 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 is survived by his fiancée Jackie Marin,
father Earl, mother Rose, brothers Tommy and
Roger Lee, and sisters Jenny and Kathleen. CN
VOL. 54 ISSUE 20 MAY 23, 2017 P29
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
GOLD
&
GOOSE
2006 MotoGP World
Champion Nicky
Hayden passed away
from injuries that he
suffered while training
on a bicycle in Italy.
