Aiki Iyoshi’s 2025 season in the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship has been a testament to resilience, grit, and passion. Despite a challenging start, where the podium has been just out of reach, the Japanese rider has one thing in mind for the upcoming Round 3 at Mobility Resort Motegi, it’s redemption. Racing at home brings a unique energy, and Aiki knows Motegi is his opportunity to prove his true potential. The competition in the AP250 category is fierce, with the likes of Yamaha and Honda setting the pace, but that only fuels his desire to rise above. Though the road ahead won’t be easy, Aiki is more determined than ever. His goal isn’t just to compete, but to conquer.
“Preparations are progressing well. The training is going smoothly, and I’m feeling good. We’ve put in the work, and now it’s about staying mentally and physically sharp when the race day arrives.” After two rounds of intense competition, Aiki has given his all in every session, even though the results haven’t yet reflected his potential. “I gave my all in the current situation,” he shared, acknowledging the struggles he’s faced but also the determination to push forward.
As he prepares to race on his home soil, Aiki’s emotions are a mix of excitement and apprehension. “Of course, I’m looking forward to it. It’s the course I ran for the first time last year, and while it’s always special to race at home, I know it’s not going to be easy. Motegi is a tough course, especially for a four-cylinder bike like mine. It’s stop-and-go, and that means every corner, every braking point, will be critical.” Still, Aiki’s passion for racing keeps him motivated, even in the face of tough competition.
When asked about his biggest rival, Aiki didn’t hesitate: “I want to compete for the top spot again with my current teammate, Andi Muhammad Fadly. He is my number one rival and someone I respect. We’ve been pushing each other to get better, and that’s what makes us both stronger. But right now, everyone on the track is a rival. In this championship, there’s no room to relax, no one to underestimate.”
Despite the challenges ahead, Aiki remains hopeful about his chances. “I think the race at Motegi will be tougher than the first round,” he said, acknowledging the reality of the competition. “YAMAHA and HONDA are too fast right now, and the course doesn’t favor us. Unless the regulations are reviewed, it will be tough to overcome them. But I’m not giving up. I won’t back down, because the fight for the win is what drives me.”
Looking at the bigger picture, Aiki knows his ultimate goal is to become the ARRC champion. “First, I want to win the championship in ARRC,” he said with conviction. “I’ll think about the next steps when the time comes, but for now, my focus is on getting that first win and proving that I belong at the top.”