Gresini Honda team-mate Marco Simoncelli

Hiroshi Aoyama has spoken out in tribute of his Gresini Honda team-mate Marco Simoncelli following his death during the Malaysian Grand Prix.

Aoyama and Simoncelli, former rivals in the 250GP class, landed as MotoGP team-mates in 2011 after the Japanese rider switched to the Gresini squad.

Writing on his personal blog, a clearly devastated Aoyama says he is struggling to find the words to describe the situation.

“My team mate Marco crashed during the race. He was fighting hard for his life but unfortunately he passed away. I cannot think of any words to describe this tragic loss.

“He has been my rival since the 250's and since we both started in Moto GP class, I could feel the tension in between us and we were always aware of each other as rookies. And now, we have been competing in the same championship as a team mate. He is such an openhearted person, no matter where he is. I know everyone had a high expectation of him since he has been performing so well.

“He is loved by so many people and I know why. Last week he came second and was on the podium. And this week again he was so powerful on his bike….. but why…..? How…..? That is all I can think right now.

"I would like to give my condolences to Marco's family, fans, teams and staff. Rest in peace Marco.”

With Gresini Honda considering missing the final round of the season at Valencia, Aoyama, who is already confirmed as joining Honda in the World Superbike Championship next year, may have made his last appearance at MotoGP level.

gresini honda

Japanese MotoGP

• Venue: Motegi, Japan
• Date: 30 September - 2 October
• Saturday 1 October: Qualfiying: 0450-0800, BBC Red Button
• Sunday 2 October: 125 & Moto2: 0350-0605, BBC Red button; MotoGP live: 0630-0800, BBC Two; MotoGP re-run: 1230-1400, BBC Two

Simoncelli has just one podium finish to his name in MotoGP - in Brno in August

MotoGP rider Marco Simoncelli has extended his contract to stay with Gresini Honda in 2012.

The 24-year-old has taken two pole positions this season but managed just one podium finish.
The Italian had been linked with a move to another team but has decided to stay on for a third season with Gresini.
He said: "2012 will be an important season for me and I want to give all those people who have believed in this project plenty to get excited about."

MotoGP standings

• Casey Stoner: 284 points
• Jorge Lorenzo: 240
• Andrea Dovizioso: 185
• Dani Pedrosa: 170
• Ben Spies: 146
• Valentino Rossi: 139

Simoncelli has been one of the fastest riders on the grid this season but has been too inconsistent, crashing out of four races.
Team manager Fausto Gresini said: "Over the past two years together we have been able to appreciate Marco's qualities as a rider, as a man and as an extroverted communicator, which made us keen to continue our collaboration.
"Marco's huge determination will give us all a lot of motivation ahead of what promises to be an exciting new season."