Yamaha boss speaks of 'irreplaceable' Norick Abe

The President of Yamaha has spoken of the shock felt within the company at the death of long-time rider Norick Abe in a road traffic accident in Japan.

Former works Grand Prix and World Superbike star Abe died in hospital yesterday evening from injuries sustained when he collided with a lorry in Kawasaki City.

Reports say the truck performed an illegal U-turn in front of Abe, who was unable to take avoiding action. He was riding a 500cc scooter at the time of the accident.

Though he started his race career with Honda, the 32-year-old will be forever associated with Yamaha after a long career with them. He is currently lying third overall in the Japanese Superbike series after returning to race in his homeland this year.

Yamaha President Takashi Kajikawa said: “I am deeply saddened to hear this tragic news. Loved by fans in Japan, Europe and the Americas and throughout Asia, Norifumi Abe was an irreplaceable ambassador of motor sports worldwide.

“Here in Japan the fans were especially excited to see Abe return to the All Japan circuit after 14 years of international competition, and certainly their sense of loss at his passing is great.

“We pray that his soul rests in peace and we send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Abe shot to prominence as a teenager in a wildcard ride at the Japanese MotoGP when he monstered established stars Mick Doohan and Kevin Schwantz at Suzuka on a Honda NSR500.

The epitome of the win-or-bust mentality which won him so many fans in his career, he looked set for a sensational debut win until he crashed out almost within sight of the flag.

Starting the series full-time in 1995, he became the first Japanese rider to win the 500 Japanese GP in 1996 – forever ensuring his place in racing history – before going on to take a superb fifth overall in the series that year.

He would win his home race again, in 2000, as well as a third MotoGP win in 1999 in Brazil.