TV AND WEB RESTRICTIONS~**NO ACCESS ITALY AND .IT WEBSITES**~ upsot - applause Italians pay their respects to MotoGP rider Marco Simoncelli, as the coffin carrying his body arrives on home soil. Simoncelli, aged 24, died in a tragic accident at the Malaysian Grand Prix on Sunday. His coffin was brought to Italy accompanied by his father as well as fellow rider Valentino Rossi, who spoke of their close friendship. (SOUNBITE) (Italian) MOTOGP RIDER VALENTIO ROSSI: "We were together nearly every day. We used to go the gym together and then we were always together with the bikes. These are my best memories." In Simoncelli's hometown of Coriano, 400 km north of Rome, residents gathered to welcome back their much loved star. The rider was known locally and internationally by his race number 58, which now lines the streets of the town. This banner reads "To you who were at full throttle right up until the end." It is an emotional occasion for the 10,000 people who live here, many of whom left flowers, messages or pictures at the central square. (SOUNDBITE) (Italian) FRIEND AND FAN CRYING: "For all of us he was just great, I think the whole world knows that. This is such a painful moment for everyone." Simoncelli will get lie in state in order for fans and friends to pass by his coffin, ahead of his funeral which is expected to take place on Thursday. Simon Hanna, Reuters.
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