A dark, dark day in motorcycling.
Countless tributes have come flooding in for Jason Dupasquier after the Moto3 rider died following a high-speed crash at the Italian Grand Prix.
He was just 19 years of age.
The Swiss star was competing at the Mugello circuit in Tuscany when he was involved in horrific accident involving multiple bikes.
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It's understood Dupasquier was struck in the head by another oncoming rider after falling off his bike during a turn.
And according to the Careggi hospital in Florence where he was rushed to, Dupasquier had suffered a "vascular lesion" and "severe brain damage" that was "incompatible with life".
He later died in hospital with MotoGP confirming the sad news via social media.
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"We're deeply saddened to report the loss of Jason Dupasquier," MotoGP said on Twitter.
"On behalf of the entire MotoGP family, we send our love to his team, his family and loved ones.
"You will be sorely missed, Jason. Ride in peace."
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The FIM, IRTA, MSMA, Dorna Sports and MotoGP also released an official statement following the 19-year-old's tragic passing.
"Dupasquier was involved in a multi-rider incident between Turns 9 and 10, with the session red-flagged thereafter," the statement read.
"FIM Medical Intervention Vehicles arrived at the site immediately and the Swiss rider was attended to on track before being transferred by medical helicopter, in a stable state, to Careggi Hospital in Florence.
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"Despite the best efforts of circuit medical staff and all those subsequently attending to the Swiss rider, the hospital has announced that Dupasquier has sadly succumbed to his injuries.
"The FIM, IRTA, MSMA and Dorna Sports pass on our deepest condolences to Dupasquier's family, friends, team and loved ones."
Dupasquier's race team Pruestel decided to pay their respects by officially withdrawing from the Italian Grand Prix, while his fellow Swiss compatriot Tom Luthi pulled out of the Moto2 race.
Elsewhere, other MotoGP stars paid tribute to the young rider following news of his death.
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One of those people was Frenchman Fabio Quartararo, who honoured Dupasquier by waving a Swiss flag on the podium after winning the Italian Grand Prix.
"It was tough because when you do the one-minute silence, the emotion is coming really quick and it is difficult to stay focused," Quartararo said.
"We got the win and that one was for Jason and his family."
A one-minute silence was also held prior to the race.
Rest In Peace, Jason.
Topics: Motorsport news, Motorsport, MotoGP, Australia,
