MotoGP star Marco Simoncelli, who tragically lost his life in last October's Malaysian Grand Prix, would have been 25-years-old today, January 20.
The Italian, who made his grand prix debut in the 125cc class in 2002, won 14 races in the 125/250cc class and was crowned 250cc world champion for Gilera in 2008.
Eighth overall during his rookie 2010
MotoGP season for Honda Gresini, Simoncelli marked himself out as a frontrunner in terms of raw speed during winter testing for the 2011 season.
Accidents, incidents and controversy marred the early part of last year, before 'Super Sic' finally claimed his first
MotoGP podium at Brno. He then claimed a career best second place at Phillip Island in Australia, just one week before his death.
Simoncelli had already re-signed to be a factory Honda rider with Gresini, during the first year of 1000cc racing, in 2012.
More information about a special foundation in Simoncelli's memory can be found at www.marcosimoncelli.it
Ciao Marco.