Simoncelli to become MotoGP Legend

Simoncelli is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame as a MotoGP Legend at the Mugello MotoGP round in June. In becoming a MotoGP Legend, Simoncelli's name will be the 21st on the list of the sport's greats.

To the shock of race fans around the world, the Gresini rider lost his life on Sunday 23 October 2011 following a crash at the Malaysian Grand Prix, just one week after the wild-haired racer finished in second place at the Phillip Island GP.

The Italian rider was the 250cc World Champion in 2008, and narrowly missed out on defending the title in 2009. Arriving in the premier class in 2010, his progress was rapid; before his untimely death, Simoncelli had already taken two podiums, two pole positions and was tipped as a future champion.

Marco Simoncelli's introduction as a MotoGP Legend will take place at this year's Italian Grand Prix at Mugello, as he joins the list already including compatriot Giacomo Agostini, plus Mick Doohan, Geoff Duke, Wayne Gardner, Mike Hailwood, Daijiro Kato, Eddie Lawson, Anton Mang, Angel Nieto, Wayne Rainey, Phil Read, Jim Redman, Kenny Roberts, Jarno Saarinen, Kevin Schwantz, Barry Sheene, Freddie Spencer, John Surtees, Casey Stoner and Carlo Ubbiali.

Image: motogp.com