Former 500cc Grand Prix Champion, MotoAmerica president and legend Wayne Rainey has paid tribute to Nicky Hayden, who died yesterday.

Rainey, a three-time 500cc king, had known the Hayden family since they made the jump fromt dirt-track to circuit racing and says that Nicky will be missed by everyone.

“I've known Nicky and his family since they started taking road racing seriously. His natural dirt tracking talent made his transition to road racing seamless. Nicky worked hard, but his passion and desire to be the best was as strong as his work ethic,” said Rainey.

"Being crowned MotoGP World Champion in 2006 was the reward for years of hard work. I believe Nicky loved the challenge and it's what he was born to do. What really stands out for me was his character and the way he treated others with respect and kindness. I am very sad and Nicky will be missed by all of us.”