Hayden had suffered severe cerebral damage and multiple traumatic injuries. The Kentucky-born rider was in Italy following a race at Imola. Italian judicial authorities have opened an investigation into the inciden The driver of the vehicle that struck Hayden was given a breathalyser test and was not found to have been over the limit at the time of the accident. During his MotoGP career between 2003-16 with Honda and Ducati, Hayden posted three victories and 28 podium finishes in 218 races. He won the MotoGP title in 2006. “As well as being a true champion on the track, Nicky was a fan favourite off it due to his kind nature, relaxed demeanour and the huge smile he invariably carried everywhere,” his team said.
