In tribute to the late, great Nicky Hayden, who passed away in 2017, the number 69 will be retired from MotoGP racing at this year’s Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas on April 14.
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The “Kentucky Kid” rode 69 to the crown and MotoGP Legend status during an impressive career that saw him leave an indelible mark on the sport and the paddock.
Hayden’s first successes came in 2003 when he took podiums as a rookie and he went on to win his first Grand Prix in 2005.
That created a perfect springboard for the next season and he put together an impressive campaign to become the 2006 MotoGP world champion, wrapping up the crown in the season finale.
Hayden rose from dirt track beginnings to the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, taking a unique blend of work ethic, humility and talent to the world stage.
Key among his many achievements was being known as “the nicest man in Grand Prix racing”.
Hayden remained a cornerstone of the paddock until his departure at the end of 2015, after which he was named a MotoGP Legend. The number 69 will now forever remain the number of the “Kentucky Kid”; the man who rode it into the Hall of Fame.
“What a great honour it will be for Nicky’s Number 69 to be retired at Austin,” said Hayden’s father, Earl. “It is fitting that it will be done at the US race as these events meant so much to Nicky.
“The Number 69 was my number when I raced and I was very proud to see Nicky run Number 69 on his bikes for his entire career.
“On behalf of my entire family I would like to say a special thanks to Dorna for honouring Nicky in this special way along with the many other gestures they have done to support us through the difficult times.”
“Nicky Hayden was a huge asset to the MotoGP paddock and a fantastic example as a rider both on track and off,” said Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports.
“It gives me great pleasure to honour his legacy once again and ensure the number 69 remains synonymous with a legend and a champion.”
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