2025

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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HAFIZH: A STEADY START, BUT HUNGRIER THAN EVER

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

The 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is heating up as Round 2 heads to the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, and eyes are on Malaysian rider, Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah of JDT Racing Team. With the home crowd behind him and plenty of motivation in the tank, Hafizh is ready to put on a show. Round 1 in Thailand was a solid start to the season. Hafizh grabbed a strong third place in Race 1 and followed it up with fifth in Race 2, placing him fourth overall in the standings. It was a good foundation, but Hafizh knows there’s more to come. “Round 1 wasn’t the best for me overall. In Race 1 I managed to fight for the podium, which was encouraging, but in Race 2 we just didn’t have the speed to stick with the front group. We’ve identified where we were lacking, and we’ve been working hard to improve in those areas. I took the positives from the weekend, and now my full focus is on Sepang.” PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit is special for any Malaysian rider, and even more so for Hafizh, who has years of experience on the circuit and a massive fan following. Racing at home brings its own energy, something Hafizh is eager to tap into. “Of course, racing at home gives you extra motivation. You know the track very well, and when the fans are out there cheering, it gives you that extra push. The atmosphere is incredible, and I can’t wait to feel it again. It just lifts your whole performance.” Last season at Sepang, Hafizh showed promise with a pole position and two strong race results: P5 and P3. However, he admits there were valuable lessons learned from that weekend. “I started from pole last year, but we made a few mistakes with the bike setup that cost us in the races. This time, we’re coming in smarter. We’ve got the data, we’ve got the experience, and we’ll work hard from FP1 to make sure we’re starting the weekend with a good feeling and strong pace. The goal is to fight up front.” Being one of the most recognized names in Malaysian motorsport means Hafizh always rides with a big fanbase watching. But rather than pressure, he sees it as pure inspiration. “I know there will be a big crowd again, and honestly, I want to do better than last year. Not just for myself but for all the fans who come out to support. I hope we can make them proud. I really encourage everyone to come and support not just me, but all the Malaysian riders. We’ll be giving it everything.” When asked about the competition this season, Hafizh points out two familiar names, but makes it clear that he’s keeping his guard up against everyone on the grid. “At the moment, I think Zaqhwan and Nakarin are the toughest competitors. They have a lot of experience with their bikes, and they know exactly how to manage the race. But to be honest, every rider out there is a challenge. We can’t take anyone lightly.” For Hafizh, this season is about more than just winning races. It’s about consistency, growth, and keeping his eyes on the ultimate prize. “My goal is definitely the championship, but I’m going to take it race by race. In racing as anything can happen. That’s why I’ve prepared myself physically and mentally to be ready for whatever comes. I’m here to fight every single round.”

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ADENANTA ON TOP AND CHARGING

2025, 2025 Round 2, Latest News /

The 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is in full swing, and Mohammad Adenanta Putra of the ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM has wasted no time making his mark. Following a sensational opening round in Thailand, where he claimed victory in Race 1 and finished third in Race 2, the Indonesian rider is now leading the SS600 standings as the championship heads to the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit for Round 2. After finishing second overall in the 2024 season behind Thailand’s Apiwath Wongthananon, who has since moved up to the ASB1000 category, Adenanta is clearly on a mission in 2025. He’s coming into PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit with sharp focus and strong preparation. “I’ve been doing a lot of training, bike work, and physical conditioning. I’m ready for Round 2 of ARRC,” said Adenanta confidently. Reflecting on his win in Race 1 at Chang International Circuit, Thailand, Adenanta admitted the race held even more meaning due to how the weekend began. “I was really happy because I struggled from the first day in practice sessions. I started from the middle row on the grid, it wasn’t easy to get to the front but finally I won the first race of 2025. It was amazing.” Looking ahead to PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Adenanta expressed his excitement to return to the iconic Malaysian circuit. “I’m excited to race in Sepang. It’s a nice track and very challenging. The layout really tests your skills, your fitness, and your focus, especially under the heat.” When asked about riders he enjoys battling with the most, Adenanta didn’t hesitate to name former SS600 rival Apiwath Wongthananon. “I always have great battles with Apiwath. He has more experience than me, and every time we raced, I learned something new. It’s always a valuable experience racing with him.” Of course, this year’s SS600 field is just as competitive, with returning veterans like Anupab Sarmoon, as well as Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin and Muhammad Helmi Azman, all fighting for the top step of the podium. But Adenanta remains focused on his own game. “I just try to fight and give my best in every race and every battle. That’s my mindset, no matter who I’m racing against.” With many experienced riders in the category, 2025 promises to be even more competitive than before. But Adenanta is embracing the challenge. “This year will be more difficult because many experienced riders are coming back to SS600. But for me, nothing is impossible. I’ll keep fighting and do my best to win, no matter how strong the competition is.” While chasing victories remains the ultimate goal, Adenanta has one clear personal mission for the season. “Champion. That’s what I’m aiming for,” he said simply.

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HAZIQ THE NEW DAD: TRACKS BY DAY, DIAPERS BY NIGHT

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

His days are filled with engine roars and racing lines—but his nights now belong to bottle feeds and soft coos. Md Haziq Md Fairues, an IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship rider currently competing in the TVS ASIA One Make Championship, has stepped into a brand new role: fatherhood. Recently, Haziq welcomed the birth of his first child, a moment filled with overwhelming gratitude and joy. For the young rider, holding his newborn for the very first time was a life-defining experience, one that words could barely capture. “Becoming a father for the first time… it’s indescribable,” Haziq shared, visibly moved. “There’s joy, gratitude, and honestly, a bit of fear. But the moment I saw my baby’s face, everything changed. It was deeply emotional. It gave me a whole new perspective on life.” With the arrival of his newborn baby, Haziq admits that his outlook on racing has shifted dramatically. “Now, every time I get on the bike, I’m not racing just for myself anymore. I’m racing for my family, for our future. It pushes me to be more disciplined, more focused, and to think further ahead.” Being a professional athlete in a highly competitive championship demands total commitment and unwavering discipline. Yet, Haziq embraces the challenge of balancing the intense life of a racer with the responsibilities of a new father. “It’s not easy,” he admits, “but I’m truly grateful for the full support of my wife and family. My training schedule is more structured now, and I make sure to carve out quality time with my child and loved ones. Time management has become more crucial than ever.” When asked whether he hopes his child will one day follow in his footsteps on the track, Haziq’s answer is filled with humility and love: “As a father, my only wish is for my child to grow up healthy, happy, and fearless in chasing their dreams. If motorsports is their passion, I’ll support it wholeheartedly. But even if they choose a different path, I’ll still be their biggest cheerleader. What matters most is that they do what they love, with all their heart.” Despite the sleepless nights and new responsibilities, Haziq remains fully committed to his racing career. In fact, fatherhood has fueled him with a fresh surge of motivation. “My training continues as usual, but now with a renewed spirit. Physically and mentally, I’m in a good place. Sure, I’m getting less sleep, but it’s worth every second. I’m racing not just for podium finishes, but to inspire the next generation in my family. I will give my best in every round, for my team, and for my family.”

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