2026

KEITO, EYES ON HIMSELF

2026, 2026 Round 1, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

After a stellar 2025 campaign that saw him finish third overall in the fiercely competitive ASB1000 category, Keito Abe of SDG HARC-PRO. HONDA PHILIPPINES is back for the 2026 season with a hunger to climb even higher. Riding in one of the toughest fields in Asia, Keito has emerged not just as a talented rider but as a thoughtful competitor, one who blends skill, discipline, and a healthy dose of humor on and off the track. Reflecting on last year, Keito emphasizes the foundation behind his success. “Looking back at 2025, what I felt was most important was teamwork. The bike is just one part. It’s the people around you, the engineers, the mechanics, the strategists, everyone plays a role. Last season taught me to communicate more, to understand the bike better, and to push myself while trusting my team. Without them, none of the podiums would have been possible.” With riders like Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of HONDA RACING THAILAND, Andi Farid Izdihar and Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah of JDT RACING TEAM in the field, Keito knows the competition will be intense. “Asia is full of very strong riders. But my team was the 2024 champion, and this is our second season together. I want to make an even better bike, and we are working hard on communication – between me and the engineers, and me and the bike. That connection is what will help me fight at the front.” The season opener at Sepang International Circuit promises high-octane action, but Keito keeps a grounded, and playful perspective on the season ahead. “Can I imagine how the season will end? Honestly, I can’t imagine at all! Hahaha! But that’s the fun side of the racing. It’s unpredictable. My goal is to improve every race, push hard, and see where we land at the end of the year.” The entry of Mohammad Adenanta Putra of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM into ASB1000 adds another layer of excitement. Keito is full of respect for his fellow Honda rider. “He is a very strong rider, and I really respect him. It will be exciting to see how we push each other. Healthy competition like this makes me sharper, and it’s fun for everyone watching too.” Off-season preparations have been intense, reflecting Keito’s commitment to growth. “I tried a lot of things. Physical training, riding training, technical work with the team… Really, a lot,” he explains. “The off-season was a chance to discover things about myself, the bike, and how to ride smarter. Every session taught me something new, and I feel more ready than ever to battle at the front.” With confidence in his team, an upgraded bike, and a renewed mindset, Keito steps into 2026 ready to challenge the top riders of ASB1000. “Every season is a new story. I just want to push myself, enjoy the ride, and leave everything on the track. Hopefully, we can climb higher than last year. But if not, at least I can say I tried everything.”

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HERJUN TAKES ON 2026

2026, 2026 Round 1, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

As the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship enters the 2026 season, Herjun Atna Firdaus stands at the center of a new era for ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM in the SS600 category. With former teammate Mohammad Adenanta Putra stepping up to ASB1000 and newly crowned AP250 Champion Fadillah Arbi Aditama joining him in SS600, Herjun faces a fresh mix of pressure, opportunity, and motivation. Last season, Adenanta’s strong performances cemented Honda’s presence in the front group. This year, eyes naturally turn to Herjun, now one of the riders expected to carry forward Honda’s momentum in a highly competitive field. But Herjun remains grounded and focused. “I don’t really think of it as ‘my moment’ or a bigger role. But what I can promise is that I will give my absolute best for the team. Every season is a chance to improve, and I want to grow step by step while making sure I contribute positively to ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM in this category.” With Arbi joining him, fresh from a dominant title-winning season in AP250, the internal dynamic at ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM takes on a new dimension. While some riders might feel pressured by a fast teammate stepping up, Herjun sees it differently. “I don’t feel any pressure from having Arbi as my teammate. My focus is always on my own race. But seeing the impact Adenanta made last year, especially with such strong results, motivates me more than anything. It shows what is possible on the Honda. I still have so much to learn, and I want to keep improving so I can match that level.” When asked how he plans to stay ahead of Arbi as the more experienced SS600 rider of the two, Herjun answers humbly but with determination. “Of course, I’ll try my best. Having a champion like Arbi beside me pushes me to be sharper. It’s a healthy motivation because we both want to lift the team. The goal is not just to race each other, but to raise the overall performance of Honda in SS600.” Looking at the wider field, Herjun acknowledges the rising competition in 2026, with both seasoned contenders and emerging threats filling the entry list. “The field this year has many strong and experienced riders. I know the 2026 season won’t be easy at all. But I also know I have to believe in myself. Confidence is important. If I stay focused on improving every session and every race, I can fight for a strong position in the championship.” To handle the growing competition, Herjun has worked closely with the team to ensure he is ready for the challenge technically, mentally, and physically. “We’ve been working hard on getting the best setup to fight the Yamaha bikes because their acceleration was very strong last season. There are many areas I want to improve, and the team is supporting me a lot. This season, I want to show better performance than last year, and hopefully fight closer to the front.” As the season opener at the Sepang International Circuit approaches, Herjun carries a blend of calm focus and renewed ambition. With leadership changes, new team dynamics, and increased responsibility, 2026 could become a defining year in his SS600 journey. ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM believes in him. His fans believe in him. And now, it’s up to Herjun to show the next step of his growth.

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PEERAPONG FIRED UP FOR AP250

2026, 2026 Round 1, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

After years of fighting through highs, lows, and long stretches of silence on the podium, Peerapong Luiboonpeng enters the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship 2026 season ready to rewrite his story in the AP250 category. The ONE FOR ALL rider steps into a new chapter after spending recent seasons in UB150, carrying the weight of experience, resilience, and renewed belief, strengthened by an unforgettable moment last year when he finally stood on the top step again. In Round 6 of the 2025 season, at his home race in Thailand, Peerapong broke a six-year drought to claim an emotional victory that meant far more than a single win. Reflecting on that moment, he shared, “It was the goal that my team and I had been fighting for during the past six years. That victory brought back so much confidence. It reminded us that all the effort, all the patience, and all the belief were worth it. It’s a feeling that motivates me heading into 2026.” This year, Peerapong returns to the AP250 category, a class he last competed in back in 2017. Nine years on, the landscape has changed, the competition is sharper, and the machines have evolved. “Back in 2017 and now, the bike model plays a huge role in the AP250 fight. But this season we’re using the Yamaha R3, the bike I feel most comfortable with and have trained on consistently. That gives me confidence to adapt quickly.” But the step back into AP250 is far from easy. With faster riders, stronger teams, and tighter lap times than ever before, Peerapong knows the challenge ahead is immense. “This year’s AP250 race is a very tough one for me because many of the riders have competed here consistently. The pace is high, the experience level is high, and I know I have a lot of work to do.” However, his years in UB150 have equipped him with valuable strengths that he believes will carry over into this new campaign. “Racing UB150 taught me a lot, especially about maintaining concentration and solving problems immediately during intense pack battles. Those skills will help me a lot as I adapt to AP250 again.” As for expectations, Peerapong’s answer is simple but powerful, “We are competing to win. My team and I will do our best to fight for victory.” With a highly competitive AP250 entry list for 2026, identifying rivals is difficult, but Peerapong remains open and focused. “Honestly, all the racers are talented. We’ll have to see how things develop at the first race. From there, we’ll know where we stand and what we need to improve.” Now, with Sepang International Circuit hosting the season opener, Peerapong enters 2026 with a mix of gratitude, determination, and quiet fire. His long-awaited victory last year reignited something powerful, and AP250 might just be where that fire burns brightest.

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TIMOTHY, NEW FILIPINO HOPE?

2026, 2026 Round 1, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

YAMAHA PHILIPPINES RACETECH RACING TEAM’s rising talent, Timothy Jonathan KY Rojas, is gearing up for the biggest year of his young career as he prepares for his first full season in the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Timothy steps into the highly competitive UB150 category, bringing with him the hunger, discipline, and determination of a rider ready to evolve. Timothy made his ARRC debut last year as a wildcard entry, showcasing strong potential in a field filled with experienced and aggressive riders. This season, he returns with a renewed purpose and a full-season opportunity to show what he can become. “For my first full season, I’m focusing on being consistent and learning something valuable every round. My main goal for 2026 is to improve race by race, keep building my pace, and fight for stronger finishes as the season progresses.” Strengthening Timothy’s development this year is his teammate, April King Mascardo, one of the Philippines’ most seasoned ARRC riders who has been competing since 2015. For a young rider stepping into Asia’s toughest underbone class, having a veteran on the same team makes a major difference. “Racing with someone like April King Mascardo helps me a lot. His experience gives me confidence. He shares insights about the bike, the race craft, and even how to stay calm under pressure. Having him around pushes me to prepare better and think like a complete rider.” Stepping into UB150 full-time also means stepping into a category known for its intense pack racing and strategic complexity. But instead of feeling overwhelmed, Timothy is using the challenge as fuel. “I handle pressure by staying focused on myself. Racing against experienced riders motivates me even more. Every lap with them teaches me something, and it pushes me to sharpen my skills and improve faster.” With only one ARRC round under his belt last year, Timothy is preparing for a season packed with unfamiliar circuits across Asia. But he is embracing the learning curve with full commitment. “I’ve been studying the tracks, improving my fitness, and preparing my mindset for every race weekend. I’m really excited about racing at Chang International Circuit. It’s fast, technical, and challenging, which makes it perfect for learning and improving.” In a category where margins are extremely tight, Timothy is clear about what helps him stand out: his mindset. “My strongest asset is my determination to improve. I may be one of the youngest and one of the newest on the grid, but I’m committed to learning quickly, staying competitive, and giving my best in every race.” Timothy carries the pride of the Filipino racing community, the support of a strong Yamaha squad, and the hunger of a rider with something to prove. ARRC 2026 will be his toughest test yet, but also his biggest opportunity.

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SEASON 2026 IGNITES A NEW ERA OF SPEED, TALENT & GLOBAL COMPETITION

2026, 2026 Round 1, Latest News /

The IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) is set to unleash a new season of high-octane action as it roars into Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia, from 10–12 April 2026. The opening round will mark the beginning of an electrifying six-round season featuring top-tier talent representing multiple nations, solidifying ARRC’s position as Asia’s most prestigious platform for competitive motorcycle racing. With returning champions, rising stars, and an increasingly diverse international field, the 2026 grid promises one of the strongest and most competitive line-ups the championship has ever seen. This season brings a total of 96 riders from 17 countries, reflecting an expanded and increasingly international grid for 2026. This year’s championship will witness fierce battles across five main categories—ASB1000, SS600, AP250, UB150, and the globally expanded TVS Racing International Championship, each bringing its own brand of intensity, rivalry, and unpredictability. The premier ASB1000 class is gearing up for a season of explosive superbike battles, with experienced contenders and ambitious newcomers ready to push their machines to the razor’s edge. In the SS600 category, fans can expect close fights and tactical brilliance as Asia’s mid-class specialists lock horns in what has historically been one of the most thrilling divisions on the ARRC grid. The AP250 class remains the breeding ground for some of the region’s most promising young talents, many of whom are determined to make a bold statement in 2026. Meanwhile, the ever-popular UB150 category is set to deliver another season of unpredictable, wheel- to-wheel racing, defined by the signature slipstream battles and dramatic finishes that consistently captivate spectators. Adding to the excitement is the TVS Racing International Championship, now strengthened with a wider global representation. Riders from multiple continents will compete on identical machinery, turning each race into a pure test of skill, race craft, and mental precision. To further intensify the competitive edge of the championship, the 2026 season will also debut the highly anticipated Dunlop Sportmax Award, exclusively introduced for the ASB1000 category. This performance-driven initiative aims to inspire riders to push beyond their limits as they chase record-breaking speed. Under the programme, any rider who sets a new lap record at selected circuits will earn a ¥1,000,000 cash reward (approximately USD 6,500), transforming each round into a high-stakes pursuit of excellence. A further ¥1,000,000 bonus awaits the season’s best qualifier during the finale, determined through a structured points system. More than a reward, this initiative is expected to ignite sharper rivalries and amplify the relentless fight for supremacy that defines ASB1000. Ron Hogg, Promotions Director of Two Wheels Motor Racing (TWMR), said, “Season 2026 marks a defining chapter for the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. As the grid continues to grow in strength, depth, and international representation, ARRC is evolving into an even more formidable proving ground for world-class talent. With enhanced technical standards, expanded global participation, and new performance-driven initiatives such as the Dunlop Sportmax Award, we are setting the stage for one of the most competitive seasons in ARRC history. Beyond the racing, fans can also look forward to an exciting festival atmosphere at Sepang International Circuit next weekend. We are bringing a line-up of activities including a fun fair, food fest, and even lucky-draw motorcycles to be won by spectators. It’s our way of elevating the fan experience and creating a vibrant, inclusive environment for everyone. We invite all motorsport enthusiasts, families, and new fans alike to join us at Sepang International Circuit and be part of the action as we kick off an unforgettable 2026 season.” With the season opener just days away, anticipation is at an all-time high. Engines will roar, rivalries will reignite, and new stories will unfold as the 2026 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship kick-starts its journey at Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia. This year’s grid is not only bigger and stronger, it’s more internationally diverse, more competitive, and more determined than ever to raise the standard of Asian motorsports.

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LU YIN TAKES THE NEXT STEP

2026, Latest News /

As the 2026 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship prepares to roar into action this April, Lu Yin steps into the new season with renewed determination. Confirmed as the second rider for Tianyu Asia Racing MFZ, the female rider moves from a one-off wildcard appearance to a full-season campaign in the fiercely competitive AP250 class. Last year, Lu Yin had her first taste of the international stage when she entered the season finale at Chang International Circuit as a wildcard rider with ONE FOR ALL. What began as a spontaneous opportunity quickly turned into a defining moment. “In last season’s finale, I stepped onto Chang International Circuit for the first time as a wildcard rider. To be honest, the decision to race was completely last-minute. I only decided to replace Gao Ziang the day before departure. Everything felt like it was on fast forward. From making the decision to lining up on the grid, there was barely any time to process it.” Only after the race did the significance truly settle in. “It wasn’t until everything was over that it really sank in that I had completed my first-ever Asian race. It was not only a double challenge of facing an unfamiliar circuit and an unfamiliar team, but also an ultimate test of my adaptability. Looking back, it was a major breakthrough in my racing career, and that wildcard opportunity laid the groundwork for this full season.” The experience also accelerated her understanding of the technical side of racing. “That wildcard experience taught me a lot about the mechanical aspects of the bike. During the race I could feel something wasn’t right. The bike kept moving back and forth, but I couldn’t clearly identify the cause. Over those few days we tried many setup adjustments, and through that process my sensitivity to the bike gradually improved.” Her move to Tianyu Asia Racing MFZ is also a testament to persistence. “On the ARRC stage, most Chinese riders compete through self-funding, and as a female rider, opportunities are even harder to come by. I’m fortunate to have sponsors supporting me, and their belief is what motivates me to keep pushing forward.” Preparation for 2026 has been far more structured compared to last year’s spontaneous entry. “If the wildcard felt like an experience race, this year I’ve truly stepped into the role of a full season rider. Since the off-season began, I’ve spent a lot of time training on the bike and improving my fitness. It’s no longer about just giving it a try. I’m here to compete.” Physical conditioning has been a major focus. “During the off-season I worked hard on strength and endurance, especially arm and finger strength. It’s been challenging, but I know the effort will show on the track.” As the only female rider competing in the championship, Lu Yin approaches the challenge with calm determination. “Of course there’s pressure, especially since most of the circuits this year are new to me. But I’m taking it step by step, learning and gaining experience. That mindset actually motivates me and makes me look forward to every challenge.” Her goals for the season are clear. “First, I want to familiarise myself with all the circuits and gain more international racing experience. Most importantly, I want to finish every race safely, and become better than yesterday’s version of myself.”

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TIANYU REINVENTED FOR 2026

2026, Latest News /

A new season often signals reset and reinvention, and few teams are leaning into that transformation as decisively as FIM Asia Road Racing Championship contender TIANYU ASIA RACING TEAM. With the 2026 campaign set to open this April, the squad enters the year with a new identity, a refined philosophy, and a sharpened competitive focus. Last season marked a transitional chapter when ShunCheng Zhang competed under the TY Antares Racing banner in the AP250 class. Over the off-season, both rider and management chose to pursue different paths. ShunCheng has since shifted his long-term vision toward Kawasaki machinery, aligning with CV Manual Tech and embarking on a new technical journey with Kawasaki support for the 2026–2027 seasons. Team owner Peng Yu Li responded by unveiling TIANYU ASIA RACING TEAM, a rebranded operation built around broader ambition and international competitiveness. Central to that plan is confirmed rider Riichi Takahira, whose return anchors the team’s push forward, while speculation continues to swirl about a second seat reportedly attracting Indonesian interest. Peng Yu describes the team’s direction as outward-looking and performance-driven. “For the new season, the team’s strategic direction centers on going outward by actively competing in high-level Asian championships. Racing alongside Asia’s top teams elevates our technical capability and real-world experience, while also allowing us to showcase the engineering strength of our partners. Our goal is to reach the podium together with our sponsors and demonstrate the competitiveness of our programme.” Expectations surrounding Riichi are equally ambitious. “With our restructured engineering lineup and updated machinery, we expect him to fully utilise his experience and challenge for podium finishes,” Peng Yu said. When selecting a second rider, the philosophy goes beyond raw speed. “We prioritise racing experience and technical understanding. We want a rider who can work closely with engineers and make intelligent setup decisions.” The broader AP250 campaign reflects measured ambition. “As a young team entering our third year, we aim for a top-ten championship foundation while pushing hard for podium results. That balance represents growth and technical progress.” Lessons from 2025 are shaping preparation, particularly race execution. “We showed strong qualifying pace last year but needed better long-distance consistency. This season focuses on converting speed into race results.” Even with familiar circuits ahead, Peng Yu remains realistic about the challenge. “The Asian podium is always hard-fought. But with new development completed, we’re entering the season better prepared.”

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PIXELS OVER PUDDLES FOR WAHYU

2026, Latest News, Real Life /

While the Malaysian sky was busy turning the Sepang International Circuit into a giant splash pad, Wahyu Nugroho decided that if he couldn’t hit the apex on asphalt, he’d just find it in pixels. It was Sunday morning at Round 5 of the ARRC, and the SS600 warm-up session had just been “liquidated” by a downpour. After only eight minutes of real track time, the white flags with a diagonal cross were waved, and the paddock went into standby mode. Most riders were leaning against pit walls, scrolling through their phones or staring blankly at rain tyres, waiting for the grey clouds to take a hike. But in the Yamaha Racing Indonesia garage, the session hadn’t ended. It had just moved to a smaller screen. In a scene the TV cameras completely missed, the young Indonesian star transformed his pit space into a high-speed digital circuit. Sitting on the blue floor carpet with his laptop perched on a green beverage crate, Wahyu didn’t reach for a snack or a nap. He reached for a controller. While his rivals were likely checking their social media or waiting for the rain to stop, Wahyu was already “leaning” into the final hairpin of a virtual Sepang International Circuit, his eyes locked onto the screen with the same intensity he brings to the real track. This is the “secret” side of the ARRC that fans don’t always see. To a casual observer, it may look like a kid playing a video game, but for a professional rider like Wahyu, it’s high-speed mental rehearsal. By jumping straight into the virtual version of Sepang International Circuit, he kept his racing brain redlining while his boots were still damp. He wasn’t just killing time, he was reinforcing the track layout in his muscle memory so that the moment the circuit dried, he’d be the one who never truly “left” it.

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SHUNCHENG’S KAWASAKI LEAP

2026, Latest News /

Every new season brings change. Few riders, however, embrace transformation as boldly as ShunCheng Zhang. As the 2026 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship approaches, his move to a Kawasaki-backed PRO POWER ANTARES RACING TEAM stands as a statement of evolution, a calculated leap into unfamiliar territory with eyes firmly fixed on growth. After previously racing on Yamaha machinery, the upcoming season marks ShunCheng’s first experience aboard a Kawasaki, following the team’s official collaboration with the Japanese manufacturer for the 2026 and 2027 campaigns. It is a partnership driven not only by ambition, but by belief in long-term development. “I’m really happy to be collaborating with Kawasaki,” ShunCheng shared. “This partnership started taking shape last December during the Thailand round. At first, it was about supporting the team, but it grew into something bigger. Now we’re fully committed. The preparation they’ve already done for 2026 is impressive, and hearing the direction ARRC is heading gives us real confidence.” The decision to make such a significant change came from seeing potential where others might see limitations. “I saw that the team could still fight near the front despite financial challenges. They have strong riders, a capable crew, and real potential. I wanted to support that and see how far we can go together.” Adapting to a new machine brings its own challenge, one ShunCheng welcomes. “I’ve already started testing the Kawasaki ZX-4RR. The bike is powerful and exciting. Every session helps me understand the engine, the balance, and how to ride it properly.” But the ambition surrounding the project extends beyond machinery. ShunCheng revealed that the team is preparing something major on the rider front. “I can’t reveal everything yet, but our second rider comes from the World Championship level,” he hinted. “Our expectations are high. We believe he can fight for wins, and once he adapts, he’ll be very strong. Together, we want to push this team to the front.” He also shared his personal target. “My personal goal is to stay consistently inside the top 15, and I believe a top 10 finish is achievable with this bike.” Beyond performance, the transition represents growth. “I’ve never ridden a Kawasaki before, so this opens a new world for me. Learning a different machine and working with a new team pushes me to grow as a rider and as a person.” With stronger backing, upgraded equipment, and renewed belief, ShunCheng sees opportunity ahead. “With the support we have, the bike will keep improving. I believe we can surprise people this season.” “Our second rider comes from the World Championship, and I believe a top 10 finish is achievable.”

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LACHLAN’S GLIMPSE OF WHAT’S COMING

2026, Latest News /

  Fresh off the off-season and already back in rhythm, Lachlan Epis wasted no time reminding the paddock that his focus for 2026 is firmly locked in. The Australian rider returned to the track during the recent Dunlop Private Tyre Test, offering an early glimpse into a season that promises both evolution and ambition, while season 2026 itself has yet to officially begin. “It’s always good to get back on the BMW and go riding no matter where you go, and getting to do it at the Dunlop tyre test was an added treat,” Lachlan shared. “We ran an older 2024 bike with updated aerodynamics and electronics and just chipped away at our programme. It was especially nice to put down some competitive times on day two.” Beyond lap times, the test marked the first step toward a refreshed chapter. “We will look different this new season, with new colours and a new title sponsor in Swift Grow. With their support, we’re expanding the team staff and focusing on a one-rider operation for 2026. These changes are important for us to achieve our goals.” Stability, however, remains central to Lachlan’s approach. “Stability is really important to me, so having the same familiar faces around me, with the addition of extra brain power and a track spotter, puts us in a good position. Staying with BMW also helps, especially if we can solve the top-speed issues we struggled with in 2025.” Mentally, the hunger is sharper than ever. “My mindset is similar to last year, but my preparation is different. I’ve made changes after missing the mark in 2025.” That includes relocating to Andorra, partnering with ND Network for performance development, and refining physical support systems to combat fatigue. On-track gains are already showing. “We’ve worked hard to improve engine braking in the final phase of braking, and we made a step during the Dunlop test.” As for what comes next? Lachlan keeps fans guessing. “You’ll have to follow me on social media and be a little patient while we get everything just right and looking smick.”

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