Former Moto GP World Champion Nicky Hayden has passed away at the age of 35.
The US bike racer had been placed in intensive care after he was struck by a car while cycling in Rimini in Italy last Wednesday.
Maurizio Bufalini Hospital in Cesena, where he was being treated, had previously confirmed that he had suffered serious head injuries in the incident, stating that he had "suffered a serious polytrauma with subsequent serious cerebral damage".
Nicky Hayden Honda CBR1000RR Red Bull Honda World Superbike Team during the Superbike race during the World Superbikes - Race at Enzo & Dino Ferrari Circuit on May 12, 2017 in Imola, Italy. NurPhoto/SIPA USA/PA Images
Born in Kentucky, Hayden joined Moto GP in 2003 and finished fifth in the Championship in his debut season.
Hayden would go on to win the 2006 Moto GP world championship aged just 25, ending Valentino Rossi's run of five world titles in a row in the elite class.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Nicky Hayden, heartfelt condolences to his family and close ones.
Riposa in pace Nicky.— AC Milan (@acmilan) May 22, 2017
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