2024

APIWATH FASTEST IN SEPANG

2024, 2024 Round 5, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The Supersports 600cc category at the Round 5 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, held at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia with Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN topped the practice session that ended on Friday. In Practice 1, Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team took the top spot with the fastest lap time of 2’13:829s. Two riders of Honda Racing Thailand, Kiattisak Singhapong and Thanat Laoongplio who clocked 2’14:549s and 2’15:096s placed second and third respectively. In Practice 2, Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN led the pack with the fastest lap time of 2’11:004s. At second place was Azroy Hakeem Anuar of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team at 2’11:116s. Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team took third place at 2’11:186s. In Practice 3, Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN topped the session at the fastest lap time of 2’10:462s. Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team placed second at 2’10:592s. Azroy Hakeem Anuar of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team took third spot at 2’10:670s. The combined practice results, Apiwath Wongthananon appeared as the fastest overall, while Muhammad Helmi Azman and Azroy Hakeem Anuar followed suit, taking the second and third spots respectively. Apiwath said, “This morning’s FP1 was quite challenging with a mix of wet and dry conditions, which made it difficult to get a consistent feel. After FP1, I made some adjustments to the bike’s setup and balance, which helped me set my best lap in FP2. Following FP2, I made further changes to the bike’s balance in preparation for FP3. The adjustments paid off, as FP3 felt significantly better, especially in terms of tire grip. We’ll need to assess the track conditions tomorrow, but I’m confident that we’ve made good progress. I’ll be ready to give it my all and adapt to whatever the track throws at us.” Fastest Lap Time:Practice Session (Combined)

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HERJUN LEADS PRACTICE SESSION

2024, 2024 Round 5, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

The Asia Production 250cc category at Round 5 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, hosted at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia watched Herjun Atna Firdaus of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM appeared fastest in the Practice Sessions that concluded today. In Practice 1, Muhammad Kiandra Ramadhipa of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM secured the top spot with the fastest lap time of 2’31:655s. His teammate, Herjun Atna Firdaus placed second with the fastest lap time of 2’32:154s. Muhammad Faerozi Toreqottullah of YAMAHA Racing Indonesia took third place at 2’33:152s. Practice 2 watched Herjun Atna Firdaus of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM took the top spot with the fastest lap time of 2’25:212s. Muhammad Faerozi Toreqottullah of YAMAHA Racing Indonesia placed second at 2’25:351s, followed by Muhammad Kiandra Ramadhipa of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM at 2’26:110s. In Practice 3, Muhammad Kiandra Ramadhipa of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM clocked fastest lap time of 2’25:217s to claimed the top spot. Behind him was histeammate, Herjun at 2’25:315s followed by Muhammad Irfan Haykal Amidi of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team at 2’25:772s. The combined results from the practice sessions showed Herjun Atna Firdaus emerging as the fastest overall while Muhammad Kiandra Ramadhipa and Muhammad Faerozi Toreqottullah trailed behind setting the stage for the battle for pole position in tomorrow’s Qualifying session. Herjun said, I’m pleased with today’s result, but the race isn’t over yet. There’s still tomorrow and Sunday to consider. I’ll stay focused and work closely with the team to analyze the data we’ve gathered. Our goal is to make the most of this information and be fully prepared for the upcoming races.” Fastest Lap Time:Practice Session (Combined)

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MUROBBIL: PRACTICE SESSION WENT SMOOTHLY

2024, 2024 Round 5, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The Underbone 150cc category kicked off its journey at Round 5 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship practice sessions at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia today. M. Murobbil Vittoni of YAMAHA LFN HP969 INDONESIA Racing Team appeared fastest for practice sessions, combined. In Practice 1, M. Murobbil Vittoni of YAMAHA LFN HP969 IND0NESIA Racing Team claimed the top spot with a fastest lap time of 2’32:272s. Md Akid Aziz of PitsBike OneWay JRT Tech2 Racing Team secured second position with the fastest lap time of 2’33:563s. Nazirul Izzat Md Bahauddin of UMA Racing YAMAHA Maju Motor Asia Team took third spot at 2’34:300s. In Practice 2, Ahmad Afif Amran of PitsBike OneWay JRT Tech2 Racing Team took the top spot with the fastest lap time of 2’33:572s. Farres Putra Mohd Fadhill of CARDINALS FACTORY RACING TEAM ARRC claimed second spot at 2’33:925s followed by M. Murobbil Vittoni of YAMAHA LFN HP969 INDONESIA Racing Team at 2’34:224s. The combined results of the practice sessions, Murobbil emerged as the fastest overall, followed by Akid and Afif preparing for best result in Qualifying session in determining grid position. Murobbil said, “Today, I had a productive session with the bike setup during FP1, which went exceptionally well. The adjustments made were spot on, and the bike felt great on track. In FP2, I took the opportunity to test out a new engine, and I’m pleased to report that the results were just as promising. The performance was solid, and I felt confident with the changes.” “Looking ahead to tomorrow, I’m fully committed to pushing my limits and striving for the best possible outcome. I’ll be analyzing the data from today’s sessions and fine-tuning my approach to maximize our performance. My goal is to build on today’s successes and give it everything I’ve got to achieve the best results possible. Thanks to everyone for their support and hard work. Let’s keep the momentum going!” added Murobbil. Fastest Lap Time:Practice Session (Combined)

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RIICHI FASTEST IN PRACTICE SESSION

2024, 2024 Round 5, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS ASIA One Make Championship in Round 5 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia happened today. The Japanese rider, Riichi Takahira emerged as the fastest in Practice Session, combined. In Practice 1, Malaysian rider, Mohd Ramdan Rosli claimed the top spot with the fastest lap time of 2’22:364s, followed by Malaysian rider, Md Muzakkir Mohamed at 2’22:562s. Indian rider, Sarthak Chavan took third place at 2’22:738s. In Practice 2, Riichi Takahira from Japan secured the top spot with the fastest lap time of 2’20:803s followed by Indian rider, Sarthak Chavan at 2’21:328s. Malaysian rider, Mohd Ramdan Rosli set fastest lap time of 2’21:873s to claimed third spot. The combined results from the practice sessions, Riichi Takahira emerged as the fastest overall, followed by Sarthak Chavan and Mohd Ramdan Rosli at second and third spots respectively. Riichi commented, “Today’s session was very positive. I’m really pleased with how I managed to set a strong time mostly on my own. It’s rewarding to see our hard work paying off, and I’m excited to build on this performance. Thanks to everyone for their support. Here’s to keeping up the good work and striving for even better results tomorrow!” Fastest Lap Time:Practice Session (Combined)

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ADIE, MORE THRILLED THAN NERVOUS

2024, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

A golden opportunity comes only once in a lifetime. Leave it with a good impact, not “I should’ve…” A young rider, Md Adie Putra Sukarno, was called up to replace April King Mascardo of UMA Racing MMR YAMAHA Philippines due to an injury sustained during a training session. Full of excitement to showcase his capabilities in the UB150 category at Round 5 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Adie is eager for the challenge. Despite it being his first appearance in ARRC, Adie expressed, “I was incredibly surprised and overjoyed when I first received the news. It was a moment of pure excitement and exhilaration, as it not only met but far exceeded my expectations. This opportunity has opened up a whole new world of possibilities, and I’m thrilled about what lies ahead. Even though it’s just for one round, it fills me with immense happiness and anticipation for the future.” To Adie, this opportunity is more than just the experience of working with new machinery or adapting to new technology; it’s about embracing the chance to race alongside some of the most skilled and accomplished racers from outside Malaysia. Adie said, “This global exposure will be invaluable, providing me with the chance to challenge myself, learn new techniques, and gain insights from a diverse group of competitors. It’s a unique opportunity to grow and elevate my skills in ways I could only dream of before.” With this incredible opportunity, Adie is wholeheartedly committed to giving his best effort. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to showcase my abilities and make a significant impact. I will pour my heart and soul into this endeavor, ensuring that I make the most of every moment and every challenge that comes my way. I will put forth my utmost effort and dedication to excel and achieve great results.” Adie shared his hope: “I hope everything goes smoothly and successfully. I’m optimistic that each step will align perfectly for a positive experience. I aim to make the most of this opportunity, using my talents and skills to their fullest potential to make a meaningful impact and leave a lasting impression.”

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RIGHT ATTITUDE

2024, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

Never a dull moment in the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category as riders work their robust moves and mark their territories in their attempt towards being a champion. Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with Astemo is all prepped to make the most of his presence in Round 5 of the Idemistu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship which will be held at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit this weekend. The Thai rider who made his entry into the ASB1000 race category this season after finishing second runner up in the SS600cc race category has been making waves with his ability to adapt quickly to the demands of the high-powered machine and the technical skills required. Moving into a new race category is often a tough ride for most riders however, for Nakarin, it was all about adopting his past experiences and putting it into work immediately. Nakarin has in the last four rounds finished podium thrice, placing him at the third spot overall to-date with a total of 92 points. Nakarin’s achievements have been consistent in the last few years. In Season 2022, he bagged the third spot overall with a total of 137 points in the SS600 race category. In season 2023, the rider went on to pick up the rhythm in the race category and enhanced his performance to complete the race with a total of 182 points. He made third overall after finishing podium 6 times including two wins. It is proven that making a name in the game is not just about experience and technical capacities but also discipline and attitude. “I think attitude is really important. With the right attitude, comes the will to learn faster and do better. Without the right attitude, I would not even have the chance to gain the valuable experience. In terms of the machine, I enjoy riding the CBR1000RR R 2024 model despite the challenges in finding the right setting. I had the golden opportunity of joining the MSBK this season and competing with riders from several nations. This has also given me the added advantage in terms of preparing for the coming round. Apart from that, I also joined the marathon and cycling events around my hometown in Khon Khaen to build up my physique and stamina.” “Sepang is a long-distance circuit, also considered a high-speed circuit ground. I need to adjust my braking timing and also improve speed on the straight. The machine handling which is good adds on to the advantage at the corners. It also complements my riding style in a nice and smooth manner. Despite that, I am still finding ways to improve my speed with the electric accelerator. The goal is of course to finish podium in the remaining races and if possible, to be the champion for this season.”

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TOUGH FIGHT AHEAD

2024, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

Racing Championship especially with its nature that comes with a certain degree of unpredictability. The scores are tight among the top five riders however Fahmi Basam of YAMAHA LFN HP969 INDONESIA Racing Team and Nzairul Izzat of UMA Racing YAMAHA Maju Motor Asia Team are more than prepared to raise the benchmark of competency in Round 5 which will be held at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit this weekend. The rider from Indonesia may have scored a DNF in round three and may not have been consistent overall, but sitting at the third spot overall to-date is the confidence and assurance he needs to continue his endeavours towards the championship title. Fahmi may be new to the ARRC scene but the rider is definitely tuned towards success considering his two wins this season. Could he withhold the challenges ahead of him? It’s difficult to predict considering the nature of the race category that is highly competitive. Commenting on the race, Fahmi said, “Riding in the UB150, in ARRC has been an amazing experience for me. To me, the tight battle from the very beginning to the end that is unpredictable challenges me further to be on the podium. In Indonesia, I take part in the Mandalika Racing Series (MRS) which is also a similar race class. That is where I picked up on my talent and experience. For the upcoming race in Sepang, it would be my first time. For now, I learn about the circuit only through videos. Once I am at the circuit, that’s when the real work begins. In the meantime, I prepare as much as I can physically and mentally. My team also is working hard to get the machine done up but of course, the setup can only be done during the FP sessions. So, let’s see how it goes. My goal is to be the champion this season. Keeping my fingers crossed.” Malaysian rider, Nazirul on the other hand had an unfortunate experience in Round 4 which resulted in a double DNS. The defending champion who led the troop and guarded his position in the last three rounds succumbed to fourth spot overall after missing out valuable points that could have possibly retained his position on top. It is not too late though for Nazirul who will be back for the coming round to fight for what he has worked hard for. Throughout the season, Nazirul finished podium thrice. Could he take his first win for the season at his home-ground? Commenting on the race, Nazirul said, “I don’t want to pressure myself too much with the championship title. All I know is that I will do my best in every race. To me, everyone in the race category is a rival and everyone has their own strengths and limitations. The most important thing on my part is to ensure the strategies are in place and that the setup of the machine is excellent. There is no room for errors as it is a critical time for myself and my team. I believe that my machine is in a good condition but we will do more and improve further. Plus, it is our home-race and there is another team that is getting better race by race. So, there are no two-ways about it. It is all extra work and effort to make sure we thrive through. I have taken some time off to recover from my injury so I am geared up now and there is no excuse. The goal is to definitely make it back on top.”

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HELMI GEARS UP FOR REDEMPTION IN HOME RACE

2024, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

A “DNF” (Did Not Finish) in racing is always a letdown for riders, and IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team rider, Muhammad Helmi Azman’s recent experience at Round 4 IDMTSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship in Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, Indonesia was no exception. After a promising second-place finish in Race 1, the disappointment of a race-ending technical issue in Race 2 was a tough blow. However, Helmi remains focusing on leveraging his upcoming home circuit advantage. With a clear plan and renewed determination, he aims to turn the setbacks into a strong performance in the next round. Helmi shared his experience during Round 4, “Race 1 was a challenging yet satisfying race,” he reflects. “Coming from the back to secure a P2 was a significant achievement, but the engine trouble in Race 2 was a major setback. These setbacks are part of racing, and I’m focusing on bouncing back stronger.” Currently sitting in the top 4 of the overall standings, Helmi is optimistic about his prospects. “I’m feeling positive about my position. There’s always room for improvement, and I’m committed to pushing myself further,” he said. His focus is now on intense training and optimizing performance to secure better results in future races. With the coming round being at his home circuit in PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Helmi sees a significant opportunity. “The home race gives me a great advantage. I know the track well and I’m confident I can use that familiarity to my benefit,” he explained. His goal is clear. It is to break into the top 3 and maximize his points. “I’m aiming for a double win. It’s crucial to capitalize on this opportunity.” Having raced at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit multiple times, Helmi is well-acquainted with the track. “I know the circuit’s nuances, including the key overtaking points and challenging corners,” he said. Despite the preparations, Helmi acknowledges the challenges ahead. “The biggest challenge is maintaining the right feel and confidence on the bike. Ensuring the bike setup is optimal and feel comfortable is key to my performance. If I can manage that, I believe it will greatly enhance my performance.” he admitted.

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SOICHIRO: FALL DOWN SEVEN, STAND UP EIGHT

2024, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

One word says it all. Emotional. This single word perfectly captures how Soichiro Minamimoto felt during Round 4 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit. Soichiro crashed twice during the qualifying session, which required him to switch to a new bike and start from scratch with the settings. Despite these challenges, his struggles proved worthwhile as he ultimately claimed victory in Race 2. Soichiro shared, “It was incredibly emotional for me to realize that, despite my crash on Saturday, I was able to secure a win thanks to my amazing team. Experiencing two crashes during qualifying was quite disheartening, but the team never lost hope. They worked tirelessly to repair my bike, allowing me to stay focused on achieving a strong result. I felt like our late friend Haruki Noguchi was watching over us, so I made sure to share the news of our victory with him.” “Honestly, when I saw the destroyed bike, I was on the verge of giving up. However, the team’s relentless effort to get it back in shape gave me the motivation I needed to push forward,” said Soichiro. Victory in Race 2 marked Soichiro’s first win and podium in his debut appearance in the ASB1000 category, making this achievement even more special. “It felt like I had finally achieved something significant. Yamaha has been struggling in the ASB1000 category, so this is the most fulfilling win I’ve ever experienced. Securing a win in this category is crucial for both my career and our team’s future. It provides a significant boost that will positively impact our performance in upcoming races.” Reflecting on his previous season, where he claimed the overall championship after winning Race 1 and securing P2 in Race 2 in the SS600 category while feeling unwell, Soichiro finds that his current situation affirms his earlier statement, “I race better when I’m sick.” He said, “I think this statement is becoming more valid now because I experienced the same symptoms as I did during the final race last year, though I’m not entirely sure why.” Looking ahead to Round 5 at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Soichiro shared, “Sepang Circuit is a difficult track, and I’m not particularly strong there. I expect it to be a tough race, but I will do my best and aim for the podium.”

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POSSIBILITES FOR TOP THREE?

2024, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The roaring sound of machines will once again fill the spaces of the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit this weekend as it welcomes Round 5 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Azroy Hakeem Anuar of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing and Kiattisak Singhapong of HONDA Racing Thailand are all geared up for the next challenge that awaits them in the SuperSports 600cc race category. Will they make it top three? It is definitely a much better season for Malaysian rider Azroy in the ARRC after battling the misfortunates of last season. Although he began the season with a double DNF, the rider was not shaken up but instead went full on to recalibrate his fate. In Round 2, Azroy pulled a stunner when he barged towards the chequered flag, taking his first victory for the season and again in Race 1 of Round 4. He currently takes the third spot overall with a total of 84 points and while Sepang could be an added advantage, will luck be on his side this coming round? Commenting on the race, “When racing, incidents are quite normal. What matters most if how quickly we bounce back up. Each year, although I have gained various experience, is still a learning curve for me. I learn new things and I try to keep improving as much as possible. I keep an open mind and this way; I am able to grow faster. This category comes with many young and fast riders. I have to constantly be on par with them. The coming round on my home-ground, while it is an added advantage, it also depends on how quickly we optimise our experience. The goal is to collect as many points and catch up with the little time left. Personally, I think we are very competitive but again, the entire troop is equally good. My training sessions including fitness so that I am physically and mentally prepared each time I am on the machine. My aim is all the way to the top!” Kiattisak on the other hand may be just a rookie in SS600, but the rider has over the last four rounds showcased potential to compete competitively in what is considered a fiery feat. The rider certainly holds the right experiences to blend-in accordingly and while the competition has been tight, Kiattisak diligently delivered consistency before pulling through to make his first podium-finish in Race 2 of Round 4. He currently sits at the fifth spot overall with a total of 74 points, no far off from the top three positions. Would Sepang open a pathway for him to climb up the ladder? Commenting on the race, Kiattisak said, “To me, it has been a very challenging time stepping up from the 250cc race category to the 600cc race category that comes with a big difference. I struggled a lot but I learnt to a great extent the mechanics of controlling the machine and also its character. I recently rode the NFS250 in Asia Talent Cup in Sepang. Continuous corners with high-speed in the circuit is definitely challenging. With the 600cc machine and the race category being more aggressive and faster, there is an advantage in the smoothness when positioning the machine. However, my body is still small and there is a slight imbalance compared to the size of the machine. Part of my routine includes exercising, training on the machine and eating proper meals. Throughout the season, I have learnt a lot from my mistakes and flaws. I tried to adjust as much as possible and adapt as quickly as possible. My goal is to try for the podium and finish in Top Three positions.”

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