The 2025 season of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship kicks off this weekend with one of the most highly anticipated debuts in the ASB1000 category, Apiwath Wongthananon’s first appearance in the premier class with A1 ENERGY BMW RACING TEAM! After a spectacular 2024 season where he was crowned the SS600 champion with YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN, the Thai rider is stepping into a brand-new chapter filled with change, challenges, and opportunity. Not only is he making the jump to ASB1000, but he’s also switching machinery for the first time, making the switch from Yamaha to BMW, a manufacturer that he has never raced with before.
“I’m excited to be competing in the ASB1000. It’s a huge step forward in my career. There are many experienced and strong riders in ASB1000, and I think the competition will be very exciting this year. I’m grateful for the opportunity to join A1 ENERGY BMW RACING TEAM and challenge myself in a completely new environment,” Apiwath shared. The decision to leave Yamaha, a manufacturer he’s long been associated with, was not an easy one, but one that he believes is crucial for growth. “I think it’s a new challenge for me, and yes, it’s a big change. Switching manufacturers after so many years is not easy, but I felt it was the right time to take this step. We’re here to give it our all and see where this new path takes us.”
As of now, Apiwath has yet to ride the BMW race machine, but he’s ready to hit the ground running when the team assembles at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand. “Honestly, I can’t give any detailed feedback yet because I haven’t ridden the bike. We’ll see it for the first time at the circuit and start working from there. The plan is to understand the bike as quickly as possible and start building chemistry with the team. It’s going to be a process, and I’m ready for it.”
Carrying the momentum of being the 2024 SS600 champion, Apiwath is confident the experience will aid him as he navigates this new phase. “Winning the 600 title last year gave me a lot of confidence and experience. It’s a different category, of course, but mentally it’s a boost. That experience is something I’ll carry with me into every session this season.”
The transition comes with its share of hurdles, and Apiwath is fully aware of the learning curve ahead. “Patience is key when starting something new. Everything is different: the team structure, the bike, even the way we approach race weekends. There’s a learning curve for sure. We’re taking it one step at a time, focusing on progress over perfection.”
The ASB1000 grid this year features several top contenders, including factory-supported riders from Honda, Ducati, and Yamaha, particularly strong entries from Australia. “All the riders in ASB1000 are strong. Many of them have data and experience from last year, so they’re coming in with an advantage. But that just makes things more exciting. I’ve watched them from the sidelines before, and now I’m ready to join the fight.”
Despite the leap in competition and machinery, Apiwath remains focused and determined to achieve his goals. “My goal is still the same. I want to fight for wins and aim for the overall championship. I know it’s a big target, especially in my debut season in this class, but I believe in myself and in the people around me. We’ll approach every race with focus and determination. Let’s see what we can achieve, step by step.”