MotoGP to pay tribute to Abe

The Japanese rider died in a road accident last weekend at the age of 32.

Valentino Rossi has paid his own tribute to Abe, writing in Gazzetta dello Sport.

"It's been a really sad month for me. One after the other two of my idols, Norifumi Abe and Colin McRae, have passed away. My bedroom was full of their posters," Rossi wrote.

"Norifumi is the only rider I've ever asked an autograph to in my life. His debut race at Suzuka (in 1994) turned him into a hero in my eyes. As a wild card entry, with a Honda sponsored by Mr Donuts, he fought at the same level with champions like (Mick) Doohan and (Kevin) Schwantz.

"For a long time, every morning - not just figuratively speaking - at seven o'clock, before going to school, I would re-watch that race and his incredible passes, until the moment he falls down.

"The 'Rossifumi' nickaname, with which I raced at the beginning of my career, was dedicated to him. I admired very much his style, different as is that of all Japanese riders, but also his choice of helmets and overalls.

"While racing together, we had a chance of getting to know each other. He was a calm person, a pleasant guy and very polite. He knew I was a fan of his and even when he quit racing in MotoGP he would always come to say 'hi' when he attended the races. Two weeks ago at Motegi was to be, unfortunately, the last time..."