American Honda sends its condolences to the family and friends of San Carlo Honda Gresini MotoGP racer Marco Simoncelli who lost his life in a racing accident at the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang yesterday.

"Marco was one of MotoGP's rising stars and he was very popular with fans in the U.S.," said Ray Blank, Senior Vice President, American Honda Powersports Division. "He was an incredibly talented and passionate rider who was thrilling to watch, and his tragic passing is being felt across the world. Our hearts go out to his family and to the Gresini team."

The charismatic 24-year-old earned his first two MotoGP podiums and his first two MotoGP pole positions this season. Only a week ago, he finished a career-best second place at the Australian Grand Prix, taking the runner-up spot to Repsol Honda's Casey Stoner.