Former MotoGP champion Hayden hit by car in Italy

Honda MotoGP rider Nicky Hayden of the U.S. is pictured in his team garage during the second free practice session of the French Grand Prix at the Le Mans circuit, in Le Mans, France May 16, 2015. REUTERS/Stephane Mahe

ROME (Reuters) - American former MotoGP champion Nicky Hayden was taken to hospital on Wednesday after being struck by a car while training on his bicycle along Italy's Adriatic coast, the World Superbike series said.

Its official website (www.worldsbk.com) said the 35-year-old, who rides for the Red Bull Honda team, was hit while training near the east coast resort of Rimini following a race at Imola.