Nicky Hayden was critically injured in a training accident just South of Remini, Italy, on Wednesday. The former World Champion MotoGP rider was riding his bicycle as part of his training regimen for the World Superbike->ke1888 circuit when he was struck by an automobile. In a statement from the ICU at the Maurizio Bufalini Hospital Mr. Hayden suffered severe head and chest trauma, and brain damage is a certainty. He is still in a coma and has been joined by his brother, mother and fiance' in Italy.

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Our Thoughts and Prayers

I'm sure all of us join the “Kentucky Kid's” teammate and long-time friend Valentino Rossi in wishing the former champ a speedy recovery. The two famously battled for the title in the '05 – '06 season with Hayden ekeing out a win overall with a razor-thin, 5-point advantage over Rossi. That rivalry only deepened their camaraderie, and the two later became teammates under the Ducati->ke622 banner.

Folks, watch out for cyclists out there. It hasn't even been a month yet since Italian professional cyclist Michele Scarponi was killed on his bike during training, also by a cager, but with a van rather than a car. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Hayden and his family and friends.

Update

Nicky passed away from his injuries. The motorcycling world mourns the loss of such a fine competitor. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends.