Honda Racing launches auction to support Hayden fund

Honda Racing Corporation has launched a charity auction to support the Nicky Hayden Memorial Fund, set up by his family in memory of the 35-year-old who died in May following a cycling accident in Italy.

"Nicky was an HRC rider for much of his racing career, a true sportsman loved and respected throughout the worldwide racing community for his charming character, commitment, and racing spirit, which helped him to attain the sport's highest levels of achievement and reach his dream of being crowned MotoGP World Champion in 2006, with the Repsol Honda Team," HRC said in its announcement.

The Nicky Hayden Memorial will be dedicated to helping local children in Hayden's home state of Kentucky through the Community Foundation of Louisville.

The winner will receive two paddock passes for qualifying and race day at the Grand Prix of San Marino at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. The Repsol Honda team will offer exclusive access during race weekend, including time with riders Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa.