Nieto, a 13-time world champion, died after succumbing to injuries suffered in a quad-bike accident in Ibiza last last month. 

The 70-year-old hit his head after being thrown off his quad bike when a car hit him at a roundabout on the Spanish island. 

He was placed in an induced coma but his condition worsened this week, eventually passing away with family by his side on Thursday. 

"Spanish motorcycling giant Angel Nieto has passed away at hospital in Ibiza, sadly succumbing to injuries sustained in a quad bike accident on July 26th," a MotoGP statement read.

"The 13-time World Champion – whose superstition always referred to his titles as 12+1 – was a MotoGP Legend and a key figure in establishing Spain as a world-beating force in Grand Prix motorcycle racing. He was 70 years old.

"After remaining in intensive care for a week following the accident, the rider from Zamora’s condition then sadly deteriorated before he passed away on August 3rd.

"The MotoGP community extends its deepest condolences to Nieto’s family and friends as we bid farewell to a true giant of motorcycling history who will be greatly missed."

A host of riders paid tribute to the MotoGP legend, posting their messages to the Spaniard on social media. Here are some of the heartwarming posts: