MotoGP Tribute to Marco Simoncelli

The MotoGP community paid tribute to Marco Simoncelli in Valencia today, in a special lap of the Ricardo Tormo circuit in honour of the fallen rider. At 10:10am local time, riders from all three classes lined up for a procession which was led by Simoncelli's Honda Gresini RC212V bike, ridden by 1993 World Champion Kevin Schwantz.

In the spirit of Simoncelli's spirited character, a two-minute fire cracker display and moment of "noise" took place to celebrate the Italian rider. Members from Marco's family, friends, Dorna, IRTA and FIM governing bodies, racers and fans from the paddock were all invited to participate in the emotional ceremony which took place on an overcast day in Valencia prior to the start of the afternoon's race finals.