Marco Simoncelli will be missed by Bridgestone's entire motorsport department.

Bridgestone Motorsport Department general manager Taka Horio released the following statement on the death of Marco Simoncelli following his incident in the Malaysian MotoGP round.

“Today we are left devastated,” he stated. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Marco’s family at this terrible, terrible time, and with his team. Words can do no justice to the emotion we are all feeling.

“The MotoGP family has lost one of its bright stars, a genuine character whose larger-than-life persona, charisma and unstoppable spirit were infectious, and we’ve all lost a great friend.

“We worked closely with Marco for his first two years in MotoGP and it was clear that he was a true racer, something he proved again and again this season. Determined to the end, and a great showman.

“His ascent through the field in just two seasons has been fantastic to watch, testament to his raw talent, ability and dedication to the sport he so loved. We remember fondly the tenacity and spirit with which he raced, and he will be sorely, sorely missed.”