The paddock reacts to news of Nicky Hayden's death

With Nicky Hayden one of the most beloved and popular riders in the race paddock both to fans and – rarely – to other racers as well, there’s been a huge outpouring of grief at the news of the 2006 World Champion’s death today following a cycling accident last week.

We’ve collated just a few of the literally thousands of tributes that’s already been paid to Nicky below.

Nicest guy in the paddock! So so sad always in our hearts❤️ RIP Nicky xx pic.twitter.com/r2iqvGuDrQ

— Danny Kent (@DannyKent52) May 22, 2017

Ciao #NickyHayden
RIP pic.twitter.com/6Hxeaw3ifW

— Loris Capirossi 65 (@LorisCapirossi1) May 22, 2017

Honoured to have raced together! So much talent on a bike the nicest guy off! Will be hugely missed by everyone! RIP #69 #legendsneverdie pic.twitter.com/drQrrAn4Vm

— Alex Lowes (@alexlowes22) May 22, 2017

How can this be real? Devastated. RIP Nicky Hayden, sincerely one of the nicest people I ever had the pleasure to meet.

— Matthew Roberts (@matt77roberts) May 22, 2017

Always in my heart, champ. RIP Nicky. #69 pic.twitter.com/ML35Qm7f1g

— Dani Pedrosa (@26_DaniPedrosa) May 22, 2017

Rest In Peace #KentuckyKid
You will be missed ❤
Our thoughts are with your family and friends pic.twitter.com/F6v3d5roVQ

— SIC 58 Squadra Corse (@teamSic58) May 22, 2017

My heart goes out to the entire Hayden family at such a horrible time.The world’s lost a true champion on & off the track.Godspeed buddy #69

— John Hopkins (@JHopper21) May 22, 2017

Can’t believe… The most easy and good guy i ever meet on a paddock in my life! Love u Nicky! RIP #69 ❤

A post shared by Aleix Espargaro (@aleixespargaro) on May 22, 2017 at 9:12am PDT

Just heart breaking. Nicky was more than just a true hero in my eyes. I send my love from deep inside my heart. R.I.P Kentucky Kid #69❤️

— ReddingPower (@Reddingpower) May 22, 2017

Absolutely gutted a true legend has passed, a nicer guy in the paddock you couldn’t ask to meet, keep it pinned up there #69 #RIPKentuckyKid

— Shane Shakey Byrne (@67Shakey) May 22, 2017

Devastated at the news #NickyHayden has died.. one of a very few superstars and all round nice guy of motorcycle racing.!!

— FOGGY. MBE (@carlfogarty) May 22, 2017

Thankful for the time that I was privileged to know you! #RIPNickyHayden #Legend Pray for his family during this time We’ll miss you mate! pic.twitter.com/oV40J7ykTE

— Casey Stoner (@Official_CS27) May 22, 2017