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This year Marco Simoncelli had really
stepped up a MotoGP gear and embedded
himself amongst the front runners, with two
podiums to his name - third in the Czech
Republic and second in Australia (above) -
after a string of eye-catching rides that
took him to sixth place in the points
standings before tragedy struck at the
weekend. Photos: San Carlo Gresini Honda. |
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News of
the tragic death of Marco Simoncelli during Sunday’s
Malaysian MotoGP race was met with dismay at Ferrari. "I
am very sad to hear of the death of Marco Simoncelli,"
said President Luca di Montezemolo. "I was very
impressed by his speed, talent and the determination he
showed this year. His qualities reminded me of Gilles
Villeneuve and now, fate has chosen to link them in this
tragic fashion. On behalf of everyone at Ferrari, I
offer all our condolences to Marco’s family for their
loss."
"It’s hard to express in words the pain felt at the loss
of such a cheery character like Marco Simoncelli," said
Scuderia Team Principal, Stefano Domenicali, who knew
the Italian rider personally. "Events such as these and
the equally tragic loss of Dan Wheldon a week ago in the
Las Vegas Indy Car race, remind us how all those who
take part in motor sport are always exposed to these
risks."One must
never drop one’s guard, aware that there is nothing one
can do against fate," continued Domenicali. "Now, the
thoughts of all of us men and women at Ferrari and those
at the Mugello circuit go out to Marco’s family and
friends and his team. I am really close to Fausto
Gresini, a dear friend who comes from my home town,
Imola, who is going through a particularly fraught time
right now."
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