San Carlo Gresini Honda rider Marco Simoncelli was laid to rest following a funeral service that was witnessed by tens of thousands of people who flocked in and around Santa Maria Assunta church in Simoncelli's hometown Coriano, close to Riccione in the province of Rimini, Italy.

Earlier news estimated the crowd to reach 50,000 on the streets, and it may have turned out that way, as the streets were packed with crowds of mourners for the vibrant full throttle rider.

MotoGP.com reported Sic's Gilera bike, on which he won the 2008 250cc World Championship title, and the Honda RC212V, on which he competed in the MotoGP class stood on either side of his casket during the final rites.

In attendance at the funeral are Marco's father Paolo, mother Rosella, sister Martina and girlfriend Kate, former fellow riders including Valentino Rossi, who was set to ride Simoncelli's motorcycle out at the end of the service as a tribute to his compatriot and close friend.

CEO of Dorna Sports Carmelo Ezpeleta, who attended the funeral services, shared with MotoGP his thoughts on the final ceremonies for Marco.

"What I experienced this afternoon in Coriano was very moving. After seeing the turnout of citizens, fans and the whole paddock there is no doubt that a great rider and a brilliant person has left us. The outpouring of affection that has been shown demonstrates that he has left his mark."

"I was impressed by the courage of Marco's family, and especially the strength of his father, Paolo, who was able to transmit his strength and energy to others... It has been extraordinary to see the MotoGP family come together for Marco Simoncelli. Despite the unfortunate loss, the tribute makes clear the immense affection that people had for him. We will never forget Marco."

Simoncelli, 24, lost control of his Honda motorcycle on the second lap of the Sepang circuit race on Sunday's Malaysian MotoGP. He ran across the paths of Colin Edwards and Rossi on the track, causing him to fall off his bike with his helmet flying out. He suffered massive head trauma, which quickly resulted in his death.

Paolo has previously spoken of his son and the fans' support to AFP.

"Thank you to everyone and I'm not just saying that... To say that I'm delighted with the way the world has reacted would be stupid but we hadn't realized how important Marco was to people... He was special -- people understood he was honest. Marco was pure," he said.