2025

LAST-LAP HEROICS, RAMDAN RULED ON HOME SOIL

2025, 2025 Round 2, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

Race 1 of the TVS Asia One Make Championship, held in conjunction with Round 2 of the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, delivered a thrilling showdown today at the Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia, with local favourite Md Ramdan Rosli emerging victorious on home soil. Earlier in the day, Ramdan secured pole position with a blistering lap time of 2’20.784s during qualifying. Japan’s Hiroki Ono followed closely in second with 2’21.858s, while India’s Sarthak Chavan completed the front row in third with 2’22.752s. When the lights went out, Ramdan got off to a strong start, taking control of the race early. He was closely pursued by Sarthak and Hiroki, setting up a fierce battle among the trio, all of whom were part of the 2024 top three in the standings. By lap 2, the leading trio had carved out a 2 second gap from the chasing pack, solidifying their positions at the front. On lap 4, Hiroki Ono momentarily took over the lead but ran wide at turn 14, allowing Ramdan and Sarthak to slip past. However, the experienced Japanese rider responded quickly, regaining the lead on lap 5. As the final lap unfolded, in a sensational final corner move, Ramdan made his move on Hiroki at the final turn, overtaking him and storming across the finish line to seal a memorable win in front of the home crowd at 14’20.495s. Hiroki finished second with a time of 14’20.661s, while Sarthak completed the race in third at 14’21.081s. Ramdan shared, “I am really happy that I could finish on top of the podium today. On Friday, I had a big issue with the bike, but I stayed positive. This morning, I had a really good feeling, I refreshed my mind, and I was focused on winning my home race, and I did it! I proved I can win. I want to thank the crew who worked on my bike over the past two days, this win is for them. I dedicate this victory to my family, my wife, and my son who are watching me from home. I’m really happy today. Thank you!” TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 1

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WAHYU “DREAM IT, RACE IT, OWN IT”

2025, 2025 Round 2, Latest News /

After a strong start to the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, Indonesia’s Wahyu Nugroho is set to take on Round 2 at the Sepang International Circuit with confidence and momentum. Riding for YAMAHA RACING INDONESIA, Wahyu currently holds third place in the standings after an impressive debut round in Thailand. At Chang International Circuit, Wahyu earned a P3 podium in Race 1 and a solid P5 in Race 2. He sits just behind YAMAHA THAILAND RACING TEAM’s Anupab Sarmoon and championship leader, Mohammad Adenanta Putra from ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM. Wahyu’s preparation for Sepang has been focused and disciplined. He’s been training on and off the bike, analyzing data, and keeping his mindset strong. “I want to improve in every session and push for better results,” he said. Sepang International Circuit, with its mix of long straights and tight corners, is a technical challenge, but one Wahyu is ready to meet head-on. His podium in Thailand was a breakthrough moment, and he credits the team for their hard work. “It was really meaningful, not just for me, but for the whole YAMAHA RACING INDONESIA team. I’m very grateful because the team gave me a great bike and worked so hard behind the scenes. That result gives me more motivation for the coming rounds.” Now in Malaysia, Wahyu is eager to face the challenge of Sepang International Circuit. “This round, I’m focused on improving myself, not just in terms of riding, but also in the results I achieve in each session. Every practice, every lap is a chance to learn and push forward.” Wahyu’s racing spirit is shaped by legends. Asked about his dream opponents, he didn’t hesitate to name a few inspirations. “If I could go head-to-head with any rider, it would be Fabio Quartararo or Marc Márquez. They’re very consistent and have such strong fighting spirits. Watching them really motivates me to push harder and become a better rider.” As the competition intensifies, Wahyu remains grounded, acknowledging the strength of the grid this year. From his compatriot and current leader Adenanta, to aggressive riders like Kasma Daniel and seasoned names like Anupab and Helmi Azman, Wahyu is fully aware of the challenge ahead. But he sees it as an opportunity to grow. “Yes, I know the competition is strong. Honestly, I learn a lot from them. They’re not only fast, but also very respectful. For me, I just want to enjoy the race, ride with passion, and keep learning.” One of Wahyu’s biggest assets this season is racing alongside his teammate, Muhammad Faerozi Toreqottullah, who has played a huge role in his development. “Faerozi has been my idol since I was a kid. He’s taught me so many things, and now that we’re teammates, it’s a big advantage. He has a lot of experience, and we can share strategies, feedback, and support each other. It makes us both stronger.” Beyond the results, Wahyu has a bigger dream this season, one that he’s chasing with humility and heart. “Insyaallah, I want to always be on the podium and win the championship in this class. Every person can be a dreamer, right? So dream it, believe in it, and go chase it hahaha!”

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AZROY NAILED THE SWEET SPOT AT SEPANG

2025, 2025 Round 2, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

Round 2 of the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship held today at the Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia, where Azroy Hakeem Anuar of IDEMITSU HONDA RACING MALAYSIA delivered a commanding performance to top the combined timesheets in the ASB1000 practice sessions. Azroy got off to a flying start in Practice 1, clocking the fastest lap of 2’05.974s. His teammate, Muhammad Zaqhwan Zaidi, followed closely with a time of 2’06.720s, while Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of HONDA RACING THAILAND secured third with a 2’07.144s effort. In Practice 2, Azroy continued to set the benchmark, leading the session with a time of 2’06.972s. Keito Abe of SDG HARC-PRO. HONDA PHILIPPINES slotted into second with 2’07.237s, while Zaqhwan maintained a strong showing in third at 2’07.358s. The final session saw Azroy shave further time off his best, recording a 2’05.882s lap to retain his position at the top. Nakarin improved significantly to clock 2’05.886s, just 0.004s off Azroy’s pace, while Zaqhwan remained consistent with a 2’06.029s lap for third. With the combined results from all three sessions, Azroy emerged as the fastest rider of the day, with Nakarin and Zaqhwan completing the top three. The narrow time gaps hint at a thrilling qualifying session to come tomorrow. Azroy said, “I had a good feeling throughout both practice sessions today. There are still some small areas where I think we can improve, but overall, I’m quite happy with the progress we’ve made. The team and I will keep working and carry this momentum into tomorrow’s sessions.” TOP 5 FASTEST – COMBINED PRACTICE

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HELMI EDGED FELLOW MALAYSIANS IN SS600

2025, 2025 Round 2, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

Round 2 of the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship got underway today at the Sepang International Circuit, where Malaysia’s Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU HONDA RACING MALAYSIA emerged as the fastest rider in the SS600 combined practice sessions. In Practice 1, Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin of HONG LEONG YAMAHA RACING topped the timesheets with a strong lap of 2’10.502s. Anupab Sarmoon of YAMAHA THAILAND RACING TEAM followed closely behind with a 2’10.719s, while Helmi clocked a 2’10.965s to secure third. Practice 2 saw Helmi respond with authority, setting the fastest lap of the session at 2’11.035s. His teammate, Khairul Idham Pawi, finished second with a 2’11.070s, while Wahyu Nugroho of YAMAHA RACING INDONESIA placed third with a 2’11.219s.Helmi’s momentum continued in Practice 3, where he shaved off even more time to post a session best of 2’10.204s. Kasma stayed competitive with a 2’10.435s to take second, while Khairul improved to third with a lap of 2’10.574s. With consistent pace across all sessions, Helmi topped the combined practice results, sending a clear message of intent ahead of qualifying. Kasma secured second overall, while Khairul rounded out the top three, making it a strong showing for the Malaysian contingent. Helmi said, “Practice sessions are done for today, and I’m happy to have finished P1 overall. I always aim to maintain my momentum at the top, but I did struggle a bit in FP1 and FP2. I made a few setup changes, knowing I have good mileage on this track, and focused on improving my comfort on the bike at higher speeds. Thankfully, everything worked out well, and I hope to carry this momentum through the rest of the weekend. Wish me luck!” TOP 5 FASTEST – COMBINED PRACTICE

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MUROBBIL STRIKED LATE TO LEAD AT SEPANG

2025, 2025 Round 2, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

Round 2 of the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship happened today at the Sepang International Circuit, where Mohammad Murobbil Vitoni of YAMAHA LFN HP969 INDONESIA RACING TEAM set the pace as the fastest rider in the AP250 combined practice sessions. The day began with Practice 1, where Riichi Takahira of TY Antares Racing Team led the field with a best lap time of 2’24.253s. Krittapat Keankum of YAMAHA THAILAND RACING TEAM followed closely with a 2’24.563s lap, while Irfan Ardiansyah of MAEZTRO NWN SCK HONDA RACING TEAM secured third with a time of 2’24.767s. Practice 2 saw Krittapat improve his performance, topping the session with a time of 2’24.157s. Muhammad Irfan Haykhal Amidi, also representing MAEZTRO NWN SCK HONDA RACING TEAM, delivered a strong run to take second with a 2’24.409s lap, followed by Murobbil Vitoni in third at 2’24.504s. The breakthrough came in Practice 3, where Murobbil stepped up to dominate the session, clocking a blistering 2’23.346s to go fastest overall. Irfan Haykhal continued his strong form, finishing second with a time of 2’23.397s, while Candra H of YAMAHA RACING INDONESIA impressed with a 2’23.488s lap to secure third. With the combined times from all three sessions, Murobbil emerged as the fastest rider of the day. It was an encouraging sign for the Indonesian as he sets the tone heading into qualifying. Irfan Haykhal and Candra H rounded out the top three overall, and both will be key contenders to watch in tomorrow’s Qualifying session. Murobbil said, “Alhamdulillah, today was quite satisfying, from in FP1 to FP3. In FP1, I focused on adapting because this is my first year competing in the AP250 class. There was some progress in FP2, although I was still struggling in a few sectors, and the bike also had some shortcomings. Alhamdulillah, I managed to set a good lap time in FP3, although there are still a few areas to improve. For tomorrow’s qualifying, I’ll do my best to optimise both the bike and my position heading into Race 1. Hopefully, I can deliver a strong performance in both qualifying and the race. The weather remains uncertain, so I’ll just stay focused.” TOP 5 FASTEST – COMBINED PRACTICE

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AFIF SET THE PACE ON HOME SOIL

2025, 2025 Round 2, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

Round 2 of the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship unfolded today at the iconic Sepang International Circuit, with Malaysia’s Ahmad Afif Amran of the Pitsbike Superfast JRT Racing Team showcasing his exceptional talent, securing the fastest overall time after the combined practice sessions. In the Practice 1, Afif made a strong statement, clocking a blistering lap time of 2’32.500s to take the top spot. Hot on his heels was Husni Zainul Fuadzy from ZIEAR LFN HP969 MCR RBT 34, who finished second with a time of 2’33.241s. April King Mascardo of UMA MMR Yamaha Philippine Racing Team completed the top three with a lap time of 2’33.260s. Practice 2 saw a shift in the lead, with Husni Zainul Fuadzy bouncing back to finish fastest in the session with a lap time of 2’33.382s. His teammate, Gupita Kresna Wardhana, followed in second place with a time of 2’34.826s, while John Emerson Inguito of 4S1M EVO Yamaha Racing Team impressed by securing third place with a time of 2’35.047s. After both practice sessions, it was Afif’s scorching pace in Practice 1 that propelled him to the overall fastest time of the day. Husni’s consistency across both sessions earned him second overall, while April King rounded out the top three in combined results. Afif said, “Alhamdulillah, it was a good start at my home circuit, securing P1 in FP1. However, in FP2, we tried a different bike, however that wasn’t as strong as the one in FP1. During FP2, I became a reference point for the other riders, which prevented me from setting a faster lap time. So I focused on alternative strategies to preserve my bike and prepare myself for tomorrow’s qualifying session.” TOP 5 FASTEST – COMBINED PRACTICE

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HIROKI RETURNED TO FORM

2025, 2025 Round 2, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

Round 2 of the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship got underway today at the Sepang International Circuit, with Japan’s Hiroki Ono laying down the marker as the fastest rider in the combined practice sessions of the TVS ASIA One Make Championship. In Practice 1, India’s Sarthak Chavan made an early impact by topping the session with a best lap of 2’23.266s. Close behind was the defending champion, Hiroki Ono, who posted a 2’23.867s lap, while fellow Indian rider Chiranth Vishwanath secured third with a 2’24.119s effort. Hiroki bounced back in Practice 2, showing his trademark form to top the session with a blistering lap of 2’22.528s to emerged as the the fastest of the day. Korea’s Kim Min Jae also found pace in the afternoon, clocking 2’23.959s to placed second, while Malaysia’s Md Ramdan Rosli delivered a strong performance on home soil, finishing third with a time of 2’24.667s. When both sessions were combined, it was Hiroki’s standout pace in Practice 2 that sealed his spot at the top of the overall standings. Sarthak Chavan’s consistency placed him second overall, while Kim Min Jae completed the top three. Hiroki shared, “On day one in FP1, I focused on learning the track. In FP2, I made some small adjustments to the setup, but we faced light rain, which affected grip compared to FP1. Despite that, I stayed focused, lap by lap, to rebuild my confidence, and in the end, I managed to top the timesheets. We’ll see how things go in tomorrow’s qualifying session. TOP 5 FASTEST – COMBINED PRACTICE

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HOME-GROUND, A BOON OR BANE?

2025, 2025 Round1, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

When Thai rider Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of HONDA RACING THAILAND hit the spot in the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category with a double win at Chang International Circuit, was it true dexterity or merely the home-ground factor? Round 2 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship will be held at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit this week and home to closest contender Zaqhwan Zaidi of IDEMITSU HONDA RACING MALAYSIA. Once teammates, now rivals at best – it was evident when Zaqhwan Zaidi of IDEMITSU HONDA RACING MALAYSIA went on a chase to topple the Thai lad who did not budge even an inch from the racing lines. It did seem like a play of finest skills with a pinch of added advantage on Nakarin’s part but definitely the road to victory is long and winding. With round 2 being held on the Malaysian playground, the tables are now turned and all eyes are on homeboy, Zaqhwan. Will he be able to live up to the pressure of the home-ground factor? Nakarin has quickly built a reputation since his debut as the rising star in the ASB1000 race category last season but seasoned pro, Zaqhwan on the other hand who has been riding for six years aboard the high-powered machine, bagged the jackpot back in 2022 making the competition and the coming round highly unpredictable. In Race 1, Nakarin concluded the race with a 0.2s gap despite Zaqhwan’s blistering top speed at 303.4km/hr whereas in Race 2, Nakarin marked a gap of 1.2s. Both the riders are currently raking it at the top of the chart but again, it’s still an early bet especially with five more rounds to go. Commenting on the race, Nakarin said, “All I can say is that I have prepared myself very well for the upcoming race by polishing my skills and enhancing my body capacities to be in control of the machine. The team and I have also worked hand-in-hand to ensure that everything is in order for the coming race. The new CBR1000 engine has an advantage will surely be better for Sepang circuit than the previous version. With that, I believe that I can put on a competitive fight with Zaqhwan. He is quite strong, especially on his home-ground. I have always liked Sepang circuit because of its long straights. I have fine-tuned my techniques on the racing lines and braking points therefore, I think its going to be an exciting experience. Yes, it is challenging and requires specific skills but with ASB1000 championship title in mind, I will go all out. My goal is be on the podium in all races. That is the ultimate expectation.” Zaqhwan on the other hand said, “It was a storm at Chang circuit with Nakarin who was expected to perform in an outstanding manner on his home-ground. Home circuit is always an added advantage and my turn is coming up soon. I want to give my best but at the same time enjoy the ride with the win in my mind. That’s the aim ultimately. I think the speed of the machine is more or less similar to Nakarin’s since we are using the same machine. The team is definitely different this season so we both might have added advantage and some limitations in certain areas. I believe that the coming race will stir up some intense moments for both of us, that’s for sure. It is also home to many Malaysian riders including Hafizh and Azlan who have both clocked in a great deal of time on the ground. I will remain positive, calm and focus on my passion for race. When I won the title two years ago, I lost the momentum and the feeling. This season is all about making a comeback, to prove my worth and dominance in the race. Hopefully, I can achieve that.”

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DANIAL RAMPS UP THE PACE ON HOME SOIL

2025, 2025 Round 2, Latest News /

The stage is set, and Mohamad Danial Syahmi Ahmad Shahril is all smiles as he gears up for Round 2 of the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. Representing UMA RACING YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR ASIA TEAM, the young Malaysian is back on familiar ground and ready to turn lessons into results. Round 1 may not have delivered the points haul he hoped for, but it gave Danial valuable insight into the season’s pace and plenty of fire to push harder in PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. “Preparation has been intense and very focused. After Round 1, we dove deep into the data and identified a few key areas where we could improve, especially the bike setup. The team has been fantastic in getting everything dialed in. On my side, I’ve been putting in the hours both physically and mentally. It’s about sharpening every detail, and now we’re coming into Sepang with confidence, direction, and a strong fighting spirit. The atmosphere at home always gives me that extra boost.” Round 1 was a wake up call to the high level of competition across the grid. But it also revealed where the team can improve and gain ground. “It was a strong reminder of how fierce the competition is. Everyone brought their best, and it set a solid benchmark for us. We saw where we stood and where we needed to improve. It’s exactly the kind of push you want at the start of the season. It lit a fire in me and showed that we’re in for an incredible year.” Now comes PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, a place Danial knows inside and out. The circuit’s unique mix of flowing corners and high speed straights always makes for thrilling racing, and Danial is keen to make the most of every lap. “Sepang is such a special place. It’s fast, technical, and really challenges every aspect of a rider’s skillset. For me, it’s a track I’ve grown up on, so there’s a sense of confidence and comfort riding here. The home crowd, the energy, it’s electric. I always feel like I’m riding with something extra here.” Despite the stacked competition, Danial’s focus is locked in on his own performance race by race, lap by lap. “There are definitely some big names out there with a lot of speed and experience. But I’ve learned not to get too caught up in others. I’m focusing on running my own race. It’s about being smart, staying consistent, and attacking at the right moment. Execution will be everything.” Danial’s strengths lie in his ability to adapt and remain composed even when the pressure’s on. “My adaptability and calmness under pressure really help. Whether it’s tire wear, sudden rain, or intense battles on track, I’m able to think clearly and make good decisions. I also have a great team behind me. We communicate so well, and that connection makes a huge difference.” As he prepares to race on home soil, Danial hopes to use every bit of track knowledge and crowd energy to climb the standings. “Racing in Malaysia always fuels my drive. I know this circuit like the back of my hand whether it’s the lines, the grip levels, and how the track evolves during the day. My strength here is being consistent over full race distance. The goal? Honestly, I’m aiming for the podium. And if the moment comes to go for the win, I’ll give it everything.” For Danial, 2025 isn’t just about the results. It’s about the journey, the learning, and making every weekend count. “Consistency is key this year. Finishing strong in every race and banking points. But I also want to grow technically, especially in race strategy and giving better feedback to the team. Beyond that, I want to be someone the team can rely on, both on and off the bike. This is a long season, and I’m here for the whole journey.”

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CAN KASMA DEFEAT ADENANTA?

2025, 2025 Round 2, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

Adenanta Putra of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM may be excellent with his manoeuvring techniques on a wet circuit ground and Kasma Daniel of HONG LEONG YAMAHA RACING may have the wit and grit on a dry surface. What would the odds be for Round 2 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship that will be held at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, known for its deceiving weather forecast? It was unfortunate for many riders during Race 1 when the storm took the grounds by surprise. The wet tires may have been an advantage to many, coupled with the robust moves as displayed by risk-taker Adenanta which earned him the top spot on the podium but for the others, it was a test of patience and a wasted opportunity that clipped their wings including the likes of Kasma who rather play it safe. It’s the balance of the bright and dark side that makes up for an interesting twist in motorsport and for Adenanta, it was a brilliant moment to strike. He flaunted his capacities and defeated the slacking troop to take one for the Honda team. In Race 2, the sun was up and burnt the grounds with no mercy, adding on strain to the already tough and highly competitive stride. But for Yamaha rider, Kasma, it was a matter of breaking or making. While a handful of riders battled the agony of speed versus tire management, Kasma made a bold stance as he circled the circuit ground with full force, leaving a gap of 4.4s from the chart-topper. He definitely earned the spot especially with the training and experience gained from his time in the ASB1000. The question arises: Will Adenanta be able to ward off the pressure from Kasma, more so on the Malaysian’s home-ground? Adenanta said, “It is no doubt that Kasma would be really good at Sepang. Not only will he be fast but the fact that he has more experience on the circuit ground reflects his added advantage. I will try to do my best to keep trailing him and maybe take the opportunity when it arises. I like the Sepang circuit because it has a slope that goes up and down. That is challenging yet interesting. Most importantly though is consistency and making sure that I stand a chance to collect as many points as possible. The championship standing is crucial so I have to play my cards well. I will definitely have to adapt quickly and find the best setting for my machine. I am pretty comfortable with the handling which I think would help me score some points there. So, let’s see how it goes. The goal is to make it to the podium in each race and eventually be the champion, fingers crossed!” Kasma on the other hand said, “Round 1 was a challenge but the outcome was a sweet success especially after loosing out on the momentum for a long time in a different race category. The win in Race 2 is definitely the much-needed boost for me and I am fully amped at the moment for the coming round. Of course, the setbacks persist especially with the inclusion of highly competitive riders who have set their foots firm on the grounds of SS600 race category but Sepang circuit is my home-ground which I would like to consider a plus point for me that I aim at optimising. Another challenge is the unpredictable weather which doesn’t come as a surprise but what remains important is being fully prepared for the situation regardless. I want to win at my home circuit. Will it be tough? Yes, it will surely be but that’s the beauty of racing because within the struggles, there is a sense of accomplishment.”

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