Simoncelli's death: Shuhei Nakamoto, Dani Pedrosa, Andrea Dovizioso and Casey Stoner speak out

Shuhei Nakamoto – HRC Executive Vice President
“There are no words to describe this moment. Marco was a very pleasant guy and a very talented driver. Sometimes I was a bit harsh on him, for example in Brno after his first podium. I told him: “lucky podium!” and he got very angry.. but I just wanted to motivate him because I knew he could have done even better. I thought we would celebrate his first victory together... now I just want to thank Marco for what he gave me. My deepest condolences to his family at this sad time."

Dani Pedrosa – Repsol Honda rider
“There's not much to say in the face of a tragedy like this. I would like to offer my condolences to his family and all the people close to him. I met his father and I only managed to hug him, in these moments nothing else matters. It was a tragic accident and everyone in the paddock was shocked. Many times we forget how dangerous this sport is and when a rider dies, nothing means anything. Of course, we are doing the thing we love, but in situations like today, nothing matters."

Andrea Dovizioso – Repsol Honda rider
“When faced with these situations, words are useless. I think of Marco's family and all the people close to him, in particular his father and mother. I'm a father too, I have a daughter and I think what happened is the hardest thing. I reviewed the images of the fall. What happened destabilizes me. I try to relive what it feels like when you push hard in a race and tragedy is around the corner. I'm very saddened by the loss of Marco. He was a strong rider, he always pushed a lot. We have been running together since we were children. I've always seen him run giving his all, I've seen him fall many times without getting hurt, almost as if he were invulnerable. Witnessing an accident like today leaves me astounded, it seems impossible to me."

Casey Stoner – Repsol Honda rider
“I am shocked and saddened by the loss of Marco. When these things happen they remind you how precious life is and I feel very sad. I am close to Marco's family, I cannot imagine what they are going through. My thoughts go out to them. I hope they can remain united to overcome this tragedy together."