The Italian rider dazzled the World Championship paddock with his charisma, ability and racing style and was a World Champion, having taken the 250 crown in 2008 – a title he narrowly missed out on defending in 2009. Arriving in the premier class in 2010, his progress was rapid and before his untimely death Simoncelli had already taken two premier class podiums and two poles in a strong second campaign.

Marco Simoncelli’s introduction as a MotoGP™ Legend will take place at this year’s Italian Grand Prix at Mugello, as he joins the list already including compatriot Giacomo Agostini plus Mick Doohan, Geoff Duke, Wayne Gardner, Mike Hailwood, Daijiro Kato, Eddie Lawson, Anton Mang, Angel Nieto, Wayne Rainey, Phil Read, Jim Redman, Kenny Roberts, Jarno Saarinen, Kevin Schwantz, Barry Sheene, Freddie Spencer, John Surtees, Casey Stoner and Carlo Ubbiali.