Fifteen years after Marco Simoncelli’s death, his memory was placed back at the centre of the Malaysian Grand Prix. Paolo Simoncelli, Rossella Simoncelli and SIC58 Squadra Corse shared a tribute before the 2026 race, accompanied by photographs of the plaque at the corner where the fatal crash took place.

Simoncelli died on 23 October 2011 during the second lap of the race, aged 24. He had entered MotoGP with Gresini Honda in 2010 after winning the 250cc world title in 2008. He remained with Gresini for 2011 and secured his first premier-class podium at the Czech Grand Prix, followed by a second in Australia. His aggressive riding and forceful personality earned him a large following, although both could also put him at odds with rivals on track.

Sepang carries two defining memories for the Simoncelli family: Marco clinched the 2008 250cc title there, then lost his life at the circuit three years later. His nickname, ‘SuperSic’, also echoes the abbreviation of Sepang’s full name. Paolo went on to establish SIC58 Squadra Corse in his son’s memory, while MotoGP riders visit the plaque whenever the championship returns to the circuit. The Misano World Circuit was renamed in Simoncelli’s honour in 2012, close to his hometown of Coriano. At the 2026 San Marino Grand Prix, Gresini Racing also ran a San Carlo-inspired livery for Simoncelli as part of its 30th-anniversary celebrations.