Superbike, Pata UK Round: Red Bull Honda pays tribute to Nicky Hayden

Following the untimely death of Nicky Hayden on Monday 22 May following serious injuries sustained in a bicycle accident, the Red Bull Honda World Superbike Team, his home for more than two years in the top series derivative championship, is gripped in pain together with the American driver's family, friends, fans and all those who have been touched by the tragic event.

The team has announced that it will regularly start the Pata UK Round which will take place this weekend at Donington Park, to best honor Nicky's memory and his career.

“It seems impossible that Nicky is no longer with us. Nicky was not only an exceptional driver, but also a shining example of sporting ethics and professionalism. “Kentucky Kid” perfectly represented the values ​​of sport and the American school of motorcycling. The level of affection and support that the global sporting community has shown to Nicky demonstrates how his kind person and his true passion for motorcycling have left a mark in the hearts of fans and professionals and on his incredible group of fans in the whole world” – he declared Marco Chini – WorldSBK Operations Manager, Honda Motor Europe – “It's a shame that we only shared eighteen months of work together, but we have many happy memories during this time. Seeing Nicky return to the top step of the podium at Sepang last year was very special and his podium at Laguna Seca was also a real proud moment, with Nicky always so passionate when racing in front of his home fans .
Thanks for everything Nicky; We will always remember you fondly, and we will miss you dearly."

Ronald TenKate – Team Manager, Red Bull Honda World Superbike Team added: “This is a huge shock for me, for the whole team, for the World Superbike paddock and indeed for the whole racing world. We only had the pleasure of working with Nicky for a year and a half, but we know what all his previous teams say about him: bike fanatic, hard-working, charismatic but above all, he was pure and genuine. It was Nicky! We will all miss him and I hope he will be an example for every young talent trying to reach the top of motorcycling, like Nicky did. We wish the whole Hayden family and his fiancée Jackie that they can have all the strength they need. Rest in peace Nicky Hayden."