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HOT ON WHEELS!

2024, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

The Asia Production 250cc of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is bound to get feistier in the season finale at Chang International Circuit which will take place this weekend. With the likes of teammates Herjun Atna Firdaus and Md Kiandra Ramadhipa of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM against Md Faerozi Toreqotullah of YAMAHA Racing Indonesia, it is a race not to be missed! It has been quite an overwhelming season for the AP250 riders but duo of ASTRA HONDA has stayed above the rest in their bid to secure the finest spot on the chart. Herjun of course would not give in to a debutante considering his prowess and years in the race category but Ramadhipa is not one to shy away from the limelight too. The battle between the teammates while has been relentless has also been a powerful motivational force that drove both towards multiple victories. Herjun currently takes lead with six podium-finish including two wins whereas Ramadhipa takes second on the chart with three podium-finish including a double-win. Will the dynamic duo be able to ward off the threats ahead? Commenting on the race, Herjun said, “I believe that we can work as a team to keep the contenders at bay. Our team is always prepared and they are all about us making it at the top. It would definitely be a competitive round at Chang – from start to completion especially at the final turn where the drama unfolds. I like the circuit and I have had my special moments there when I won the Thailand Talent Cup in 2018. So, I am pretty confident, I would say! But of course, everyone wants the fine piece of the pie but I want it more and I am almost there. Next round, I will follow ASTRA HONDA’s rider formation and go all out towards victory. I want to move on to the next level. My body is too big for AP250 already!” Ramadhipa on the other hand said, “We will definitely fight in our own ways and capacities with the same goal – to win! My current challenge is the RPM limitations and I am trying my best to optimise the potentials of the machine for a maximised outcome. The Chang circuit is quite tricky for our machine but what I love about it is the long-straight in sectors 1 and 2. There are the low-speed corners too which need more acceleration which could be a challenge for us. Our goal of course is to become a champion for sure but again there are many of us with the opportunities and its all about striking while the iron is hot. I will continue to be in the moment and do my best.” Shying away with a 2-point difference at the third spot is Faerozi who shot to fame this season with his brilliant and competitive stride. If last season was a bummer for the Indonesian lad, this year came along with his A-game with three wins and two podium-finish. The rider took home a 25-point in Race 1 during the season opener at Chang circuit which also means that Faerozi is one-up on the circuit ground. Will he be able to replicate the victorious moves is but a question that comes with greater disputes. Faerozi has nevertheless come a long way and what other better way to justify his accomplishments if not with a win? Faerozi said, “The first win at Chang changed my perspective of the overall season. It gave me enough fighting spirit to be on the podium in the consequent rounds. Not only that, racing on the Yamaha YZF-R3 machine for the first year has given me a lot of advantages throughout and I am pretty confident that I will be able to put on a good showdown in the season finale. I like the Chang circuit but I am also sure that all the other riders have their own advantages there too. So, we shall see. Overall, this season has been a great one for me. It is a total package – great machine, experience and team work. This has also given me the boost that is needed to perform better and fight for podium. The primary challenge is definitely the possibilities of becoming a champion which also means bucking up and no more fooling around. My goal is only one – to be the AP250 Asian Champion!” Malaysian rider, Md Syarifuddin Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team is not far off and its all about pulling in the right stunts at the season finale. The rider finished podium twice this season and clearly, it has been quite a struggle for him however the opportunity is open and with the right and much-needed moves, he might just be in for a celebration.

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WHO’S GOT WHAT IT TAKES?

2024, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

It’s steaming up in the Underbone 150cc race category and its about to get explosive in the season finale of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at Chang International Circuit this weekend. The bold and buffed riders are prepared to bulldoze anyone in their way, only with one mission in mind – to dominate the circuit ground. Only 1-point difference between Md Akid Aziz of PitsBike OneWay JRT Tech2 Racing Team and Fahmi Basam of YAMAHA LFN HP969 INDONESIA Racing Team, the two riders shoulder massive pressure that is sure to keep mounting throughout the weekend. Between the duo, who would rise above the challenge? It’s quite unpredictable in the UB150 race category. Both riders are exceptional in their output although based on records, Fahmi may have the upper-hand at Chang circuit considering his win during the season opener. But having said that, Akid has the advantage in adaptability based on his four-podium finish on different circuit grounds. Beyond that, all the other riders are equally competitive which makes the race quite unpredictable. Akid said, “Every race comes with its own set of pressures especially the UB150. The competition is fierce. But I have trained hard and am focused on my strategies so while I still am nervous, I also see it as a motivation. With just 1-point difference, there is no time to lose. I need to be consistent throughout and also take calculated risks especially on the last lap on the last turn. That is my biggest concern actually. One mistake and it would cause a major crash. It’s not going to be an easy ride for sure. Winning the title before gives me the experience I need but ARRC is ever evolving. This season, there has been tremendous advancement overall which requires me adapt quickly. My winning strategy though is a combination of preparation, adaptability and teamwork. It is not just myself but the entire team has to be on the same page with one mind-set.” As for Fahmi, he said, “With a gap of 1 point difference, it is not going to be an easy ride. Of course, I will try to stay calm so that I can be more focused. In my opinion, the top four riders will be tough competitors. Having said that, there is no room for me to be complacent. These are only temporary results which will change very quickly if I don’t perform. As for the machine, I will leave it to the team. The mechanics know best on working out the setup. We will analyse data from round 1 and see how best we can elevate its performance for the finale. The challenge in the UB150 is being consistent from the start till the end. Everyone wants to be the champion therefore everyone is always pushing beyond their limits to stay at the front. So, staying ahead of everyone is considered the number one challenge. Chang circuit is a good one but the last turn on the final lap will be the crucial point.” The top two duo aside, Adytya Fauzi of RACETECH SIXTY Racing Team and Nazirul Izzat Bahauddin of UMA Racing YAMAHA Maju Motor Asia Team are both climbing up the ladder quite swiftly. If not for his injury, Nazirul would have certainly been able to defend his championship better but again, racing is not just about prowess and more often, luck has its way of pulling it tricks. Adytya on the other hand may just be a debutante but lucky for him, his victory on the podium twice has given him the upper-hand to sustain the pressure and load from his contenders while keeping himself contained at the third spot overall. Between slip-streams and aggressive attempts from the riders, particularly at the last turn on the final lap is what determines the twist of fate for the riders. Among the four riders, managing that predictable scenario and rarely, stripping away from the forces of slip-stream may be an effective move but not always easily achievable. Who will make it to the top is no longer a play-safe battle but one that would require pulling the right strings and surviving luck!

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WHO WILL SHINE AT CHANG?

2024, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The season finale of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship will heat up the circuit grounds of Chang International Circuit. On the lookout for this weekend is the heated battle between Md Ramdan Rosli of Malaysia and Sartak Chavan of India who will string the chords for the 1st runner up position in the TVS Asia One Make Championship. After seven wins and being defeated twice, Hiroki Ono bagged the championship title in Round 5 at Sepang International Circuit with a staggering total of 201 points leaving Ramdan and Sartak for the final dance at the chance of filling up the next spot in the overall chart. Between the Asian duo, its quite obvious that Ramdan holds the golden key at 144 points however Sartak who is 46 points behind definitely has a chance too. Who would pull the strings better is likely the question. During the season opener, Sartak added another string to his bow when he made it to the podium twice as compared to Ramdan who made it only once. The Indian rider definitely crafted an impression of his capacities on the circuit ground as opposed to Ramdan who unveiled his struggling moments for two consecutive years. Would he be able to charm through for a victorious lap this time around? It’s hard to predict but with the mileage he has earned throughout the season, Ramdan may just unleash a different side of him in the coming round. Commenting on the race, Ramdan said, “Buriram has always been the tough one for me compared to the other racing circuits because the track has its own set of difficulties. So, I am a little overwhelmed but of course, I will give my best there like I have in each round. I aim to win and be on the podium. I have always been focused but I know I have to improve further as well. I will try my best to avoid mistakes, that is key especially to keep up to a consistent lap time. I believe it would be a tough race at Buriram but I continue doing what I know best and tackle the challenges as and when it comes. As for next season, I will still be racing but nothing is confirmed.” Sartak on the other hand said, “The first round in Thailand was really good and I was able to get two podium finishes. I also became the youngest and first Indian in the championship to finish podium. It was indeed a proud moment however, while finishing the subsequent rounds on the podium has been good, I am not very happy with it especially when I finish third. My goal for the coming round is to make a win out of it. There are two riders who will be fighting for this position but I am sure I can put on a good fight and secure the 2nd runner up position in the championship. Ramdan has been really fast in this season. He definitely has the right experience, having raced in various different championships as opposed to me. So, he definitely has the upper-hand in this. Despite that, I will still go all out and do my best. This year, I would like to finish on the podium overall but next season, I will go for the champion title.” Inching closer in their bid to tackle the 2nd runner up position are Vorapong Malahuan of Thailand and Rocco Sessler of Germany shy of 5 and 8 points respectively. Despite their slow start to the season, both the riders have showcased exceptional quality in their riding techniques especially in the Malaysian round where Vorapong bagged his first podium-finish. Rocco on the other hand made two podium-finish including a win. Could they topple their contender and take home the 2nd runner up spot?

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HELMI SETS OUT TO CHALLENGE SS600 GLORY

2024, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The final round of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is set to deliver fireworks in the SS600 category, with Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN holding the advantage on his home turf. However, Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team has no intention of making it an easy race for the Thai rider. Determined to leave his mark, Helmi is ready to challenge the odds and fight for glory at Chang International Circuit Buriram, Thailand. Currently placed fourth in the standings with 113 points, Helmi trails Apiwath, who leads with 155 points. With Mohammad Adenanta Putra and teammate Azroy Hakeem Anuar also in the hunt, the final showdown promises to be an all-out battle among the top four riders. Helmi’s history at Chang International Circuit Buriram offers a glimpse of his potential. In Round 1, he pushed Apiwath hard in Race 1, finishing second before an unfortunate setback ended his Race 2 with a DNF (Did Not Finish). This season, Helmi has claimed one win, two second-place finishes, and a third-place podium, showcasing his consistency and resilience. “My focus is on improving myself and my bike. I know what it takes to compete here, and I’m ready to fight,” said Helmi. “Apiwath is strong on this track, but I’m not backing down. This weekend, I’ll give it everything I’ve got.” With four riders battling for the title and unpredictable weather conditions potentially coming into play, Helmi remains prepared for the challenges ahead. “The wet conditions here can be tricky,” he admitted. “I’ll need to adapt quickly if it rains, but I’m confident in my preparation and mindset.” “This is my moment to shine. I’ve learned from my experiences this season, and I’ll stay focused and ride smart, no matter what comes my way,” he affirmed.

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THANAT: PROVING STRENGTH ON HOME SOIL

2024, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The battle for national pride takes center stage as three Thai riders-Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN, Kiattisak Singhapong and Thanat Laoongplio of Honda Racing Thailand, gear up for the final round of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at Chang International Circuit Buriram. While Apiwath chases his SS600 championship title, Thanat is determined to make his mark. Currently 10th in the overall standings, the Honda Racing Thailand rider has his sights set on his first podium and aims to outshine his compatriots on home soil. “I will show everyone that I can do it and perform better than those two,” Thanat declared confidently. Thanat’s familiarity with Chang International Circuit Buriram and his history here bolster his resolve. In Round 1, he showcased his potential by finishing P5 in Race 1 and P4 in Race 2. Coming into the final round, he has learned from past experiences and is ready to deliver a stronger performance. “There is homework from the first round that I’ve worked on to make myself stronger. The rest, let the results prove it.” he said. Adding to the anticipation is Thanat’s love for rain conditions. Should the weather take a turn, it could play into his hands and amplify his chances for a breakthrough result. “Rain doesn’t worry me. I like rainy weather and I am comfortable in wet track conditions. It could give me the edge I need,” he shared. As the final showdown draws near, Thanat remains focused on his goals. “This is one of the tracks where I feel confident, and I’ve prepared myself fully to ensure the results come without any regrets,” he said. For Thanat, the battle isn’t just about points; it’s about pride, proving his capabilities against his fellow countrymen, and leaving his mark on the finale.

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THE ROAD TO GREATNESS AT HOME

2024, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

At Chang International Circuit Buriram, Thailand, Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN stands on the brink of glory. Leading the SS600 championship standings, the Thai rider returns to the track where his journey began this season, ready to conclude the 2024 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship as a champion. Currently, Apiwath leads the SS600 standings with 155 points, holding a 14-point advantage over Mohammad Adenanta Putra of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM. The competition remains fierce, with Azroy Hakeem Anuar and Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team still in contention for the title. However, Apiwath holds a significant edge as this is his home circuit, and his record here speaks for itself. During Round 1 earlier this season, he dominated both races, solidifying Chang International Circuit Buriram as his fortress. This season, Apiwath’s consistency has been unmatched. Securing three wins and three P2 finishes, he has firmly established himself as the championship favorite, combining calculated risks with undeniable skill. Now, heading into the final round, Apiwath is prepared to deliver his best, fully aware of the expectations resting on his shoulders. “My preparation for this final race has been thorough and focused. I’m ready to give my best,” Apiwath said. “This is my home race, and the fans will make the atmosphere electric. I’ll focus on the championship points, but I’ll aim to deliver a performance worthy of their support.” Apiwath also acknowledged the intensity of the final round, with championship battles unfolding across multiple categories. “The atmosphere will be intense, no doubt. But I thrive in moments like these. And as always, I will stay focused and execute with precision,” he stated. Having conquered challenges throughout the season, Apiwath remains calm and composed as he approaches the finale. “There’s no pressure. I trust my team, my bike, and my preparation. We will do our best, as we’ve done all year. We are ready for the final round!”

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FAHMI’S MISSION FOR TITLE BID

2024, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

As the final round of IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is set for thrilling conclusion at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, among the contenders vying for glory in the UB150 category, Fahmi Basam of YAMAHA LFN HP969 INDONESIA Racing Team stands just one point shy of the championship leader, Md Akid Aziz of PitsBike OneWay JRT Tech2 Racing Team. The UB150 category is renowned for its unpredictability and fierce competition, with six riders still in contention for the championship title. Fahmi, currently second in the standings with 114 points, has been a force to reckon with this season, securing three race wins—more than any of his rivals. His impressive record speaks of consistency and resilience, qualities he will need to unleash in the final battle. Fahmi has proven his mettle at Chang International Circuit Buriram before, triumphing in Race 1 during Round 1 earlier this season. However, the UB150 category is known for its twists, and Fahmi experienced this firsthand when he finished P16 in Race 2 at the same venue. As he returns to Buriram, Fahmi is determined to learn from past mistakes and deliver his best performance. “My preparations for the final round have been intense,” Fahmi shared. “Physically and mentally, I’ve been pushing myself to be in the best shape possible. I’m ready to fight harder than ever at Buriram. This circuit is fantastic, and I am excited to race here again.” With just one point separating him from Akid, Fahmi remains calm and focused. “I don’t want to let the points gap become a burden. Instead, I’ll stay composed and focused on the race ahead. I believe in myself and my ability to perform,” he stated confidently. The final round promises an intense showdown with six riders, including Fahmi, Akid, Adytya Fauzi, Nazirul Izzat Md Bahauddin, Gupita Kresna Wardhana, and M. Murobbil Vittoni, all vying for the championship title. Fahmi recognizes the critical importance of every lap, every corner, and every point. “The competition will be fierce, but my approach is to stay calm and focused,” Fahmi explained. “I start every race with Bismillah and focus on executing each lap perfectly. My strategy is simple: remain consistent and push for the best result in both races.” When asked about the challenges he faces, Fahmi candidly admitted, “Right now, my biggest challenge is overcoming myself. I’m working on staying mentally strong and not letting external pressures affect me. It’s about pushing my limits and staying focused on the goal.” The UB150 category often delivers the most unexpected outcomes, and Fahmi is well aware of the stakes. With the narrowest of margins separating him from the championship lead, his determination to make every moment count could be the key to his success.

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RAMDAN, FIRST RUNNER UP?

2024, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

At the Final Round of IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship 2024 at Chang International Circuit Buriram, Thailand, Malaysian rider Mohd Ramdan Rosli stands ready to solidify his position in the TVS Asia One-Make Championship. With the championship title already secured by Japan’s Hiroki Ono, all eyes are on the battle for second place between Ramdan and Indian rider, Sarthak Chavan. Currently holding second place in the overall standings with 144 points, Ramdan has a comfortable 46-point lead over Chavan. However, the final round will be crucial to maintaining his standing and ending the season on a high. Ramdan has had an impressive season, claiming seven podium finishes, including one win, three P2 finishes, and three P3 finishes. At the same venue during Round 1 earlier this year, he showcased his skill with a P2 finish in Race 1, though Race 2 proved more challenging as he ended P5. In preparation for the final round, Ramdan shared, “I’ve been working hard to maintain my fitness and mental strength. This final battle is just as important as any other race, and I’m ready to give my best effort.” Reflecting on the competition, Ramdan remains steady and focused. “The riders in this category are highly skilled, but I’m concentrating on improving myself. My target is to finish both races on the podium,” he said. With Hiroki Ono already owning the championship title, Ramdan is embracing the challenge of securing second place without undue pressure. “There’s no stress for me. I just want to focus on my own race and deliver strong results. That’s my goal,” he shared. Chang International Circuit Buriram is a familiar battleground for Ramdan, who views the track as a fair playing field. “Buriram isn’t the most difficult circuit, and I believe every rider can find speed here. It’s all about how well you adapt and execute,” he explained. As for the aspirations for the final races, Ramdan is aiming high. “Of course, my goal is to win both Race 1 and Race 2. If I can take the number one plaque in both, it would be the perfect way to end the season. My focus is on finishing this season strong and hope to continue competing at the highest level in the upcoming season,” he concluded.

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ADENANTA’S SHOT AT SS600 SUPREMACY

2024, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The final curtain rises this weekend at Chang International Circuit Buriram, Thailand, as the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship 2024 reaches its climax. Among the contenders for glory, Mohammad Adenanta Putra of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM stands poised for battle. The Indonesian rider entered the SS600 finale just 14 points shy of championship leader Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN. Adenanta embodies the spirit of a determined challenger. While Apiwath enjoys the home advantage at a track he has mastered, Adenanta remains unshaken, treating the final round as an opportunity to prove his resilience, skill, and determination to the very end. With consistent performances throughout the season and a deep desire to push his limits, the stage is set for a captivating showdown between these two exceptional riders. Will Adenanta’s calm resolve overturn the odds, or will Apiwath’s dominance at Chang International Circuit seal the title? The answer awaits as the final battle commences. Adenanta shared, “My preparation has been consistent and focused. I’ve been training hard every day, both physically and mentally, to be ready for this final round. I’ll give my best performance and enjoy every step of the journey.” Adenanta’s journey to the final round has been one of resilience. Despite facing setbacks, including a crash in Race 1 of Round 5 that widened the points gap to Apiwath, he has maintained his composure and continued collecting valuable points. He remarked, “From Round 1 to Round 5, I’ve had strong results in most races. While I didn’t always win, I managed to stay consistent. The crash in Round 5 was indeed tough. But it has made me more determined to fight harder for the final round.” With only a 14-point gap separating him from Apiwath, Adenanta remains optimistic about his chances to claim the title. “I know 14 points might seem like a lot, especially since Apiwath is strong at Buriram. But for me, nothing is impossible. I have confidence in my abilities and will give my best until the very last race,” Adenanta stated firmly. During Round 1 at Chang International Circuit Buriram, Adenanta demonstrated his capability with a P3 finish in Race 1 and P2 in Race 2. Heading into the same venue for the finale, his goal is straightforward. “My focus is to finish ahead of Apiwath in both races. It’s as simple as that,” he asserted. When asked about his personal targets, Adenanta said, “Of course, I want to be the champion. But more than that, I want to give my absolute best, improve step by step, and enjoy every session. My priority is to find more speed, set a strong race pace, and stay focused on each lap.” Unbothered by external pressures, Adenanta’s calm mindset is his greatest asset. “I don’t have any major concerns. I just focus on staying positive and enjoying the process because it helps me perform better. A positive mindset is the key to success for me.” As the battle for championship intensifies, with contenders like Apiwath, Adenanta, Azroy Hakeem Anuar and Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team all vying for the title, Adenanta’s measured approach and steady focus measure him as a formidable challenger. Ready to give his all, Adenanta is poised to shine in the decisive SS600 finale!

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SARTHAK: RACE TO HIS SATISFACTION

2024, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

India’s rising star, Sarthak Chavan, is ready for the finale of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship 2024 at Chang International Circuit Buriram, Thailand. Competing in the TVS Asia One-Make Championship, Sarthak is locked in a battle with Mohd Ramdan Rosli for second place in the overall standings. With 98 points, Sarthak is 46 points behind Ramdan, while Hiroki Ono has already claimed the championship with 201 points. This season, Sarthak has been consistent, earning five podiums: one P2 and four P3 finishes. His strong results at Chang International Circuit during Round 1—P3 in Race 1and P2 in Race 2—bolster his confidence for the final challenge. “The preparations have been going well,” Sarthak shared. “Becoming the youngest-ever champion in Indian history in the Premier Prostock 301-400cc category has boosted my confidence. This final round is crucial. I’ve been studying the Chang International Circuit closely and fine-tuning my approach.” Facing tough competitors, including riders with European racing experience, Sarthak remains undeterred. “The competition is strong, but I know my strengths and will push hard to make the most of every opportunity,” he said. With the title already decided, Sarthak is focused on securing second place. “I have a chance, though some DNFs (Did Not Finish) earlier this season cost me valuable points. Even finishing third would be something I’m proud of,” he admitted. Sarthak’s comfort with the Chang International Circuit is a key advantage. “This track suits my style, and I’ve had four podiums here. I’ll push hard to go for two wins this weekend,” he stated. Sarthak also shared his goals for the final two races, “I’m betting on myself to win both races. I’ve worked hard, and I want to end the season with strong performances for my team and myself.” Sarthak also emphasized safety and satisfaction as his top priorities. “I want to stay safe and avoid unnecessary risks. My goal is to deliver performances that reflect the hard work we’ve put in this season,” he concluded.

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