Motocross fan and former MotoGP world champion Nicky Hayden is fighting for his life after being hit by a car while out riding his bicycle in Italy.

The 35-year-old Red Bull Honda World Superbike racer, who recently went to the Motocross MXGP at Valkenswaard in Holland, was riding near Rimini this afternoon, where he has been spending time following the Italian World Superbike round at nearby Imola.

Following the incident, emergency services were called to the scene and Hayden was transported to the local hospital.  Ambulances arrived and Hayden was taken directly to the hospital.

The former American dirt track champ has been moved to Cesena hospital for further treatment and possible surgery. It’s reported he has serious head and chest injuries.

Our thoughts are with him and has family at this time.

Here’s a video of Hayden out on his motocross bike in happier times.