[Iceman]

talian motorcyclist Marco Simoncelli has been tragically killed in a crash during today's Malaysian Moto GP, race organisers have confirmed.

The Gresini Honda rider lost control of his bike on the second lap of the circuit in Sepang and appeared to be hit by Colin Edwards and then Valentino Rossi as he slid across the track.

The fatal incident comes just a week after British IndyCar racing driver Dan Wheldon died after crashing in Las Vegas
Agony: Marco Simoncelli's father is comforted as he waits outside a medical centre where the rider was taken following a crash at the Malaysian Grand Prix

Agony: Marco Simoncelli's father is comforted as he waits outside a medical centre where the rider was taken following a crash at the Malaysian Grand Prix

The 24-year-old's helmet came off in the collision and he was taken to the medical centre for treatment, but his injuries were too serious.

A message on the MotoGP website read: 'Marco Simoncelli succumbed to injuries sustained in Malaysia.'

Newly-crowned champion Casey Stoner admitted watching the accident made him worried for Simoncelli, who was later pronounced dead.

'As soon as I saw the footage it just makes you sick inside,' the Australian told BBC2.
Losing control: Simoncelli (No 58) crashed on the second lap of the race

Losing control: Simoncelli (No 58) crashed on the second lap of the race

'Whenever the helmet comes off that's not a good sign.'

Tony Elias, Moto2 world champion, was praying the injuries to Simoncelli were not serious before learning the devastating news.

'We just hope Marco is OK - that's my wish,' he said.
Concern: Honda team members await news of the Italian riders injuries

Concern: Honda team members await news of the Italian riders injuries

The organisers confirmed the race was cancelled, having halted it immediately after the fatal incident.

A bulletin from the organisers, reported on website Autosport, said: 'Race cancelled as the medical centre staff is focusing on treating Marco Simoncelli and track action cannot be resumed in the current circumstances.'
Cancelled: Rubbish covers the track after the race was abandoned early in Sepang

Cancelled: Rubbish covers the track after the race was abandoned early in Sepang

It was confirmed on MotoGP's official website that he died at 4.56pm local time.

The organisers cancelled the race when the extent of Simoncelli's injuries become apparent, having halted it immediately after the accident.

Tributes came in from his fellow riders.

British MotoGP rider Cal Crutchlow wrote on Twitter: 'RIP Marco Simoncelli ! A great rider and all round nice guy. My thoughts are with all his family & friends. I will never forget today.'

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/oth...#ixzz1bbA0Fd5Z


Devastated