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T.Y. ANTARES BOLSTER AP250 LINEUP FOR SEASON 2025

2025, Latest News /

As the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) season approaches, the T.Y. Antares Racing Team is looking forward to a strengthened lineup. The addition of a skilled Japanese rider will bring new energy and competitive edge to the team, providing a solid foundation for success in the upcoming season. The Japanese rider, Riichi Takahira, is not new to the championship. Having competed in the TVS Asia One-Make Championship at the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship last season, he brings valuable experience and skill to the AP250 category. His solid performance in 2024 has given the T.Y. Antares Racing Team a boost in confidence for the 2025 season. Him joining the team on a full-year contract is seen as a key factor in strengthening their competitive efforts. For Antares, the addition of Riichi is a welcomed development. With both riders now competing in the same category, they will be able to challenge each other, pushing the team’s overall performance to new heights. Their partnership promises to create a healthy competitive environment within the team, which can only enhance the results they aim for in season 2025. Antares expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “It’s great to have Riichi with the team. His experience from last season and his talent will definitely make the team stronger. With both of us racing in the AP250 category, we can motivate each other to perform at our best. I’m confident that our combined efforts, along with the support from our sponsors, will bring good results this season.” As the team heads into the new season, the presence of Riichi has injected fresh energy into the setup. His experience in the TVS Asia One-Make Championship has helped him develop a deeper understanding of the competition, and this year he is ready to take on the challenges of the AP250 category in full force. The added strength of having two skilled riders, along with the increased support from sponsors, has positioned T.Y. Antares Racing Team for greater success in 2025. The team is now in a better place to compete with the growing number of strong riders entering the championship this season. With the team working together, the shared goal is to improve and achieve strong finishes. Antares is focused on building on the lessons of 2024, which was a season filled with both successes and setbacks, including crashes. His personal goal for 2025 is to remain consistent, improve his results, and contribute to the team’s overall performance. Antares shared, “This year, my main target is to finish in the top 15 in every race, and, if possible, push toward the top 10. Last year, I had great moments but also struggled with some crashes. This season, I’m focused on consistency – finishing strong in every race and scoring points consistently. Every point counts, and if I can keep improving throughout the season, I’m confident that we can reach even higher targets as we go along.”

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VIET NAM, BREAKING BARRIERS

2025, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

Cao Viet Nam, a rider from Honda Racing Vietnam Team, has been making waves in the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). Known for his determination and rapid growth in motorsports, Viet Nam’s journey is a testament to perseverance, especially given the underdeveloped racing culture in his home country, Vietnam. Despite racing in a country where the sport isn’t well-established, Viet Nam’s performance has caught the attention of fans and competitors. During a tyre test, he was seen riding a 600cc bike, which led to speculation about his involvement in the SS600 category this season. However, he quickly cleared the air, stating that he will continue to compete in the AP250 category. His ambition and focus on improvement are what make his journey truly inspiring. Reflecting on 2024, he said, “I review the entire 2024 race and prepare well for 2025.” His analytical approach shows that Viet Nam is setting the stage for greater success in 2025, focusing not just on competing, but on continuous growth as a rider. As the new season approaches, Viet Nam’s response to questions about surprises for the upcoming season was humble: “I don’t really know much about the 2025 plan, I’m just focusing on myself to be better.” His commitment to self-improvement is evident. With this mindset, he’s setting himself up for success in a sport that demands constant adaptation. One of the most talked-about moments was when Viet Nam was seen riding a 600cc bike during a tyre test, sparking rumors that he might compete in the SS600 category. However, he quickly clarified, saying, “No, as far as I know. I will continue in the AP250 category with higher goals.” His focus remains firmly on achieving better results and being more consistent. Viet Nam’s ultimate goal for the season is to be more consistent. Reflecting on the past year, he said, “I want to compete more consistently, because last year I crashed a lot.” He’s taking these experiences in stride and aiming for steady progress. His determination to minimize mistakes and maintain his performance speaks to his maturity as a rider. When asked about his expectations, Viet Nam set a high bar: “I expect to get two podiums in one race weekend.” This shows his ambition. For a rider from a country with limited racing infrastructure, this is a bold yet achievable goal. Perhaps one of the most inspiring parts of Viet Nam’s story is his humble beginnings. Racing in Vietnam, where motorsport is still growing, has presented unique challenges. Viet Nam shared, “Actually, I come from Vietnam, where racing is not very developed. No racetrack, no experience with racing bikes, from the bottom up, so I just enjoy it.” His words reflect his resilience. Despite the lack of resources and structured racing culture, Viet Nam has carved a path for himself in international motorsports. His passion and ability to learn from every experience have allowed him to overcome the odds. Cao Viet Nam’s story is one of growth, determination, and passion. His journey is about pushing through the challenges of being a rider from a country with developing motorsports. With his focus on consistency, his goal of podium finishes, and his drive to improve, Viet Nam is definitely a rider to watch in the 2025 ARRC season.

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MOTORSPORTS – BEYOND SPORTS

2025, Latest News /

While most professional athletes spend their off-season focusing solely on personal growth and training, IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) rider, Lachlan Epis of SAVITAR TEAM ASIA took a different route. Fresh from a two-week training camp in China, Lachlan dedicated his time to mentoring young road racers aged 8 to 10, exemplifying the profound impact professional athletes can have beyond the competitive arena. “This was my third trip to China, and while my previous visits were for racing with ARRC in Zhuhai, this experience was uniquely fulfilling. The enthusiasm and raw talent of these young riders were inspiring,” Lachlan reflected. Driven by his passion for coaching and supported by CHC Moto Taiwan, a mutual sponsor, Lachlan embraced the opportunity to shape the next generation. “I’ve always enjoyed coaching, especially with young racers who are eager to learn and haven’t developed bad habits. Meeting the kids and their families reaffirmed my decision, and we’re already planning another camp during the summer break.” The camp wasn’t just about technical skills. It was about nurturing potential, instilling discipline, and fostering a love for the sport. “The kids had impressive skills, but they lacked the knowledge to translate that into strong lap times. We worked on race craft, and seeing their rapid improvement was the highlight of my trip.” For Lachlan, the experience was equally transformative. “Coaching forces you to break down your techniques, often revealing areas where you can improve. It also reignites your passion when you see that same excitement in young eyes.” Reflecting on the broader role of professional athletes, Lachlan shared, “Racing can be self-centered, especially early in your career. But as you grow, you realize the importance of giving back, guiding young talents, and contributing to the sport’s evolution.” Balancing personal commitments and professional responsibilities is never easy. “With a packed calendar and family at home, dedicating time to this camp was a sacrifice. But witnessing the kids’ progress made it worthwhile. Plus, staying active with them kept me fit!” As global connections in motorsport strengthen, Lachlan hopes to continue his mentorship journey. “The racing world is becoming more interconnected, and I’m excited about future opportunities to support and develop young talent.” Lachlan Epis’ story is a reflection of the enduring spirit of sportsmanship, proving that true greatness is measured not just by victories on the track, but by their contributions off it.

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YUKI ASB1000 CHAMPION

2024, 2024 Round6, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

The Asia Superbike 1000cc category came to an exhilarating conclusion at Race 2 of the season finale of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Yuki Kunii of SDG Team HARC-PRO Honda Ph. claimed a hard-fought victory, securing both the win and the 2024 championship in a thrilling battle at the Chang International Circuit. Yuki got off to a great start, quickly taking the lead in the race. However, just three laps into the contest, Andi Farid Izdihar, the Race 1 winner, along with his teammate Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with Astemo, overtook Yuki and took control of the front. As if the pressure wasn’t enough, another rider from the same team, Md Zaqhwan Zaidi, closely followed, adding even more intensity to the competition. As the race progressed, the front group of four Honda riders were locked in fierce battle, with Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman of TKKR BMW Racing Team starting to make up ground from P5, gradually closing the gap and positioning himself as a potential challenger. On Lap 10, the Japanese rider Tetsuta Nagashima from Astemo SI Racing with Thai Honda made an impressive move, shooting up to P2, which further stirred the front group. This prompted Yuki to pick up the pace, as he realized the pressure was mounting with the fierce competition right on his tail. At this critical moment, Yuki formed a gap of 2:993s between himself and the trio of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with Astemo riders. Yuki’s efforts were rewarded as he dug deep and widened the gap, ensuring there would be no last-minute overtakes. He crossed the finish line with a time of 20’47:479s, securing not only the victory but also the 2024 championship. Completing the podium were Tetsuta Nagashima, who finished second with a time of 20’48:415s, and Andi Farid Izdihar, who took the third spot with a time of 20’50:927s. After the race, Yuki shared his thoughts emotionally, “Yesterday, we faced some challenges at the start, but in Race 2, we gave it everything we had. In the beginning, I focused on maintaining my position, and towards the end, I managed to create a gap and keep the pressure off. This victory, and this championship, is not just for me. I want to dedicate it to my late teammate Haruki Noguchi. Haruki always gave his best for the team, and it’s truly heartbreaking that he is no longer with us. This win and the championship are for him. I hope he is watching from above and smiling.” TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 2 TOP 5 OVERALL STANDING TOP 5 TEAM OVERALL STANDINGS

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APIWATH CHAMPION ON HOME SOIL

2024, 2024 Round6, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The Supersports 600cc category came to an exhilarating conclusion at Race 2 of the season finale of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. On his home turf, Apiwath Wongthananon of the YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASIA sealed the championship title in dramatic fashion with a fierce victory at Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand. The race got off to an intense start, with Apiwath quickly asserting himself at the front. Following closely behind were his fierce competitors, Thanat Laoongplio and Kiattisak Singhapong of Honda Racing Thailand, both of whom were determined to challenge his lead. Having a deep understanding of Apiwath’s strength at the Chang International Circuit, the Honda riders, including Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team, Thanat, Kiattisak, Azroy Hakeem Anuar of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team, and Mohammad Adenanta Putra of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM, surrounded Apiwath, attempting to prevent him from fulfilling his championship aspirations. Meanwhile, Apiwath’s teammate, McKinley Kyle Paz, was trying to make his way into the front group to join the battle. However, the race took a devastating turn on Lap 11, when one of the main championship contenders, Adenanta, crashed out. His unfortunate exit not only pushed him out of the top 3 in the race podium, but also ended his bid for the title, leaving Apiwath with a clearer path to the crown. Throughout the race, the battle for the lead was dynamic, with Yamaha and Honda riders exchanging positions multiple times. Despite the relentless pressure from the Honda riders, Apiwath proved his dominance, pulling away in the final laps and speeding past the finish line with a time of 20’00:313s. This victory marked his second double win at Chang International Circuit and officially confirmed him as the 2024 Supersports 600cc Champion. Completing the podium were his fellow Thai riders, Honda Racing Thailand’s Thanat and Kiattisak, who finished in second and third place at 20’00:431s and 20’00:569s, respectively. A visibly emotional Apiwath reflected on his journey: “There are no words to express how I feel. This victory is not just for me but for everyone who has been by my side throughout this journey. From my team, my family, to all the supporters who have been with me every step of the way. They’ve motivated me to push harder in every race. Finally, I get to claim the championship, it’s unbelievable! I’m beyond grateful to my team, my family, and to all the fans who believed in me.” TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 2 TOP 5 OVERALL STANDING TOP 5 TEAM OVERALL STANDINGS

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HERJUN CHAMPION AFTER 3 YEARS’ WAIT

2024, 2024 Round6, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

The Asia Production 250cc category reached its dramatic conclusion at Race 2 of the season finale of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. After three seasons of relentless effort, Herjun Atna Firdaus from the ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM finally achieved his long-awaited championship title, despite finishing the race in second place behind the winner, Cao Viet Nam of Honda Racing Vietnam Team. From the very start of the race, the lead changed hands multiple times, showcasing the competitive nature of the category. However, it was Cao Viet Nam who seized the lead on Lap 3, marking a turning point in the race. The championship battle took an unfortunate turn when Muhammad Kiandra Ramadhipa, the championship leader heading into the finale, was forced to retire from the race on Lap 3 due to a mechanical issue. This unexpected development shattered his title hopes and opened the door for other contenders to capitalize on his misfortune. As the race progressed, the leading group continued to shift positions. On Lap 6, another title hopeful, Peerapong Boonlert of YAMAHA Vit Chonburi, suffered another crash after a similar mishap in Race 1, further impacting his chances for the season’s top spot. The race became even more unpredictable with each lap, as riders fought to position themselves for a final push towards the finish line. By Lap 8, it was clear that the battle for the win would come down to Cao Viet Nam and Herjun Atna Firdaus, with Muhammad Faerozi Toreqottullah of YAMAHA Racing Indonesia following in third place, just 1.7 seconds behind. Despite his best efforts, Faerozi could not bridge the gap to challenge the two Honda riders for the lead. Cao Viet Nam crossed the finish line to claim victory at 19’02:009s, while Herjun finished in second place at 19’02:589s. However, it was enough for Herjun Atna Firdaus to secure the 2024 Asia Production 250cc Championship with consistent performances throughout the season. Herjun said, “I can’t express how much this means to me. This journey has been incredibly tough. In my first year, I came so close but failed to claim the championship. In the second year, I tried again, but the title slipped through my fingers. I watched my teammate celebrate his success while I was left feeling disappointed. But today, I can finally say that I’ve made it. To my team, my family, and all the supporters who have stood by me through thick and thin — this victory is for you. You all never stopped believing in me, and this is the moment we’ve all been waiting for. Look, we’ve done it together. I’m so proud to bring this title home to all of you.” TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 2 TOP 5 OVERALL STANDING TOP 5 TEAM OVERALL STANDINGS

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FAHMI, UNDERBONE CHAMPION

2024, 2024 Round6, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The Underbone 150cc category came to a dramatic conclusion at Race 2 of the season finale of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, where Fahmi Basam of the YAMAHA LFN HP969 INDONESIA Racing Team secured a thrilling victory and claimed the highly coveted championship title. The race was an absolute roller-coaster from start to finish, with the lead changing almost every lap. From the moment the flag dropped, the fight for the title was conventional. The intensity of the race heightened, with championship leader Md Akid Aziz from PitsBike OneWay JRT Tech2 Racing Team leading the charge for the title. Akid was riding a flawless race, holding off multiple challengers and looking set to claim the championship. However, as the final lap approached, the stakes were raised even higher, and fate had other plans. Both Akid and his closest title rival, Adytya Fauzi of RACETECH SIXTY Racing Team, both fell at the final corner, opening the door for Fahmi Basam to seize the opportunity. Fahmi sped past the line to take the win with a time of 16’27:758s. This victory also secured him the championship title for the 2024 season, capping off a remarkable year of racing. Behind Fahmi, his teammate Murobbil also delivered an impressive performance, finishing second with a time of 16’28:110s. Dimas Juli Atmoko rounded out the podium in third place, clocking a time of 16’28:561s, ensuring a podium for his team, One For All. Reflecting on his victory and the season as a whole, Fahmi was overcome with emotion, expressed, “I’m beyond happy and thankful. This has been an incredible journey. It’s been a year and a half since I first participated in ARRC, and I’m so grateful for everything that has come together this season. I couldn’t have done it without the hard work of my team. Alhamdulillah, we managed to take the title this year. A huge thanks to everyone who has supported me along the way — this victory is for all of you.” TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 2 TOP 5 OVERALL STANDING TOP 5 TEAM OVERALL STANDINGS

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HIROKI CHAMPION, RAMDAN CLAIMS FIRST RUNNER UP!

2024, 2024 Round6, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS ASIA One Make Championship concluded at Race 2 of the season finale of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Hiroki Ono from Japan capped off an outstanding season with a double victory, securing both the race win and the championship title. Meanwhile, Malaysian rider Mohd Ramdan Rosli fought valiantly to finish fourth in Race 2, earning himself the first runner-up position in the overall championship standings. Ramdan’s determination was evident from the very start of Race 2. With the championship already sealed by Hiroki in Round 5, Ramdan was eager to secure the runner-up spot in the championship standings, and he was not going to let anything stand in his way. The battle for victory was fierce, with Ramdan and Hiroki exchanging blows throughout the race. Despite Hiroki’s confirmed title win, the Japanese rider showed no mercy, continuing to push at the front, making sure Ramdan had to earn his position. Adding to the intensity was Thailand’s Atih Kanghair, who had the home crowd behind him and was determined to make an impact. Atih was relentless, pushing hard to secure the top spot as he fought tooth and nail against the likes of Ramdan and Hiroki. Indian rider Sarthak Chavan, who had been a consistent podium finisher throughout the season, was also in the mix. He gave it his all to secure another podium in his final race of the season at the Chang International Circuit, further increasing the intensity of the already-dramatic battle. In the final laps of the 8-lap race, it was Hiroki who crossed the line first, clinching his second victory of the weekend with a time of 14’59:946s. Atih followed closely behind, finishing in second place with a time of 15’00:348s, while Mohd Ramdan Rosli who finished third with a time of 15’01:830s, was penalised a dropped of 1 position due to exceeding track limit at last turn watched Vorapong Malahuan from Thailand took third place. However, Ramdan still managed to secured the runner-up spot in the overall championship standings. Reflecting on his victory, Hiroki Ono said, “I am very, very happy to finish the season as number one. Today’s race was also very tough, but I really enjoyed fighting with all the riders. It was a fantastic race, and I’m grateful for the incredible support I’ve received this season from ARRC, TVS Racing, and all of my sponsors. I couldn’t have asked for a better conclusion to my championship journey.” Ramdan, although disappointed with not winning Race 2, was thrilled with his overall achievement. “It’s been a tough season, but finishing as the first runner-up in the championship is something I’m very proud of. I gave it my all today, and while I really wanted to win, I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received throughout the year. It’s an honor to represent Malaysia on this stage, and I’m looking forward to what the future holds. Congratulations to Hiroki for an outstanding season,” he commented. TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 2 TOP 5 OVERALL STANDING

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ANDI STANDS TALL AT CHANG

2024, 2024 Round6, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

Race 1 of Round 6 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship in the ASB1000 category at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, saw Andi Farid Izdihar of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with Astemo clinch a commanding victory, securing the top spot on the podium. During the qualifying session, Andi Farid Izdihar earned pole position with the fastest lap time of 1’34:700s. His teammate, Nakarin Atiratphuvapat, followed in second with a time of 1’34:876s, while Yuki Kunii of SDG Team HARC-PRO Honda Ph. secured the third grid position with a time of 1’34:975s. As the race began, the trio from Honda Asia-Dream Racing with Astemo—Andi Farid Izdihar, Nakarin Atiratphuvapat, and Md Zaqhwan Zaidi—took the lead, with Zaqhwan moving into second place ahead of Nakarin. The championship leader, Yuki Kunii, was in P5, attempting to close the gap with the front riders. The Honda Asia-Dream Racing trio displayed impressive speed, with Zaqhwan reaching a top speed of 300km/h as he overtook the Thai rider, Nakarin, to take P2. By lap 6, the top three riders had pulled a gap of 2:345s ahead of the second group, while Yuki struggled to overtake Japanese wildcard rider Tetsuta Nagashima of Astemo SI Racing with Thai Honda. Yuki was subsequently overtaken by Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah of JDT Racing Team. Despite the challenges, Yuki started to show signs of improvement, making his way up to P4, while Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman of TKKR BMW Racing Team’s position after a fall on lap 10. Andi became more comfortable in the lead, creating a gap of 2 seconds ahead of Zaqhwan. On the final lap, Yuki, who had been trailing Nakarin closely, managed to overtake him to secure P3. Race 1 concluded with Andi crossing the finish line to claim victory with a time of 20’44.539s, making him the new championship leader with 165 points—5 points ahead of Yuki. Andi Farid Izdihar said, “In the beginning, I just focused on maintaining a good pace, which is the right strategy. I didn’t expect to still claim the victory after making some mistakes, but I’m happy with the result. Tomorrow, we’ll analyze everything before Race 2, but for now, I want to celebrate and release the tension.” Zaqhwan finished in second place with a time of 20’46:156s, while Yuki secured third with a time of 20’48:724s. TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 1ASB1000

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STUNNING VICTORY AT HOME GROUND FOR APIWATH

2024, 2024 Round6, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

Race 1 of Round 6 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship in the SS600 category saw Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN claim victory at his home ground, the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand. In the qualifying session, Thanat Laoongplio of Honda Racing Thailand secured pole position with a fastest lap time of 1’38:434s. Ratthapong Wilairot of YAMAHA Thailand Racing Team took second position with a time of 1’38:542s, while Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN qualified in third with a lap time of 1’38:628s. As the race began, Apiwath made an excellent start and quickly took the lead. Thanat followed closely behind, with Rheza Danica Ahrens of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM in third position. Apiwath, the winner of both Race 1 and Race 2 at Round 1, found himself under pressure throughout the race. The only Yamaha rider in the front group, he was surrounded by five Honda riders: Mohammad Adenanta Putra and Rheza of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM, Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team, Thanat, and Azroy Hakeem Anuar of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team. Despite the fierce pressure, Apiwath defended his position well, denying multiple overtaking attempts. On lap 10, Rheza crashed out of the race, leaving a smaller group battling for the podium positions. After several attempts, Helmi successfully overtook Apiwath for the lead on lap 9, with Adenanta also making his move to place Apiwath in third. However, on lap 10, Thai rider Thanat crashed, dropping him further down the order. The top three riders engaged in fierce battles, frequently exchanging positions through the corners. However, Apiwath, known for his strong performance at the Chang International Circuit, demonstrated his experience and reclaimed the race lead in the final lap. He proudly crossed the finish line to take the victory with a time of 20’02:211s. Apiwath commented, “Incredible! What a race! In the beginning, I tried to push as hard as I could, but after five laps, I saw the board and realized that there was a big group of riders behind me. I stayed calm and kept telling myself to focus. In the final lap, there were two Honda riders ahead of me, so I aimed to overtake them in the last sector, and thankfully, I made it. I feel exhausted now, but this is such a special moment for me.” Second place went to Adenanta, who finished the race with a time of 20’02:575s, while Helmi secured third place with a time of 20’02:629s. TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 1SS600

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