A statement on the MotoGP website said Simoncelli sustained critical injuries and was sent to the medical center at the Sepang circuit for treatment.

“Despite their efforts, Marco sadly succumbed to his injuries,” the statement said.

The race, the second last of the season, was canceled.

Simoncelli lost control of his Honda at turn 11 four minutes into the race, but his bike regained partial grip and swerved across the track, straight into the path of American Colin Edwards and Valentino Rossi of Italy.

Simoncelli’s helmet was ripped off in the incident and he lay motionless on the track after the collision. He had been fourth at the end of the first lap. The other two riders were unhurt.