Casey Stoner Pays Tribute to Former Teammate Nicky Hayden
Australian MotoGP rider Casey Stoner has paid a heartfelt tribute to his former teammate Nicky Hayden, the celebrated world champion who passed away at the age of 35. Hayden, affectionately known as “the Kentucky Kid,” succumbed to severe cerebral damage and multiple traumatic injuries following a tragic accident in Cesena, northern Italy. The incident occurred last Wednesday when Hayden was struck by a car while riding his bicycle, leading to his transport to Bufalini Hospital on the Rimini coast, where he passed away on Tuesday.
Stoner and Hayden shared a pivotal season as teammates at Honda in 2006, a period Stoner recalls with fondness and admiration. Reflecting on Hayden’s character, Stoner shared his memories on Wednesday, emphasizing the American rider’s unwavering kindness and positivity.
“He always gave me a lot of time,” Stoner remarked. “Even when I was in the lower categories and he was already in MotoGP. He was always happy to stop for a chat and that never stopped throughout the whole of his career. He never stopped smiling even when times were tough for him. He’s somebody that we’re really going to miss; no one ever really had anything bad to say about him.”
The news of Hayden’s untimely death has elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from the motorsport community. Notable figures such as Lewis Hamilton, Dani Pedrosa, Marc Marquez, Felipe Massa, Sebastian Vettel, Jenson Button, and Cal Crutchlow have all taken to social media to express their condolences and share their memories of Hayden.
Hayden’s enduring legacy in the world of MotoGP is marked not just by his championship success but also by the indelible impact he left on those who knew him. His infectious smile and generous spirit continue to resonate deeply within the motorsport world, ensuring that his memory will be cherished by fans and fellow racers alike.
