Asia Superbike 1000

The Asia Superbike 1000cc has always been an awe-factor that awakens the nerves. This time around, taking on a full spirit on Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit was Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team who emerged victorious with a remarkable win in Race 1 of Round 4, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. During the qualifying session, Markus of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team marked the fastest at 1’34:619s consequently claimed the pole position. Andi Farid of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA made it to the second spot on the grid at 1’35:916s. Kasma Danial of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN who has been quiet in the FP sessions yesterday took the third spot on the grid at 1’36:200s. The race flagged off to the heat of 47 degrees in temperature. As Markus took speed, Zaqhwan made a surprising move ahead at turn one. By the end of lap 2, Zaqhwan maintained his position with Azlan at P2 and Kasma at P3. The pole man seemed to be taking a relaxed position then at P4 while Haruki managed his pace at P5. As the race picked up, so did Zaqhwan’s speed but Markus began making his moves at the end of the third lap. Haruki on the other hand bypassed Andi into P3 while Kasma lost his pace and fell behind into P5. With seven laps to go, it was all about managing the speed while maintaining the condition of the tires on the heated asphalt. Before the end of the lap 4, Markus made a slingshot move ahead of Zaqhwan. The Honda rider went on to inject pressure on Markus while his teammate, Andi made a slide from the inside into P3. By mid-race, Markus drew a 0.8s gap with Zaqhwan. With another four laps to go, the ONEXOX rider was far ahead. Meanwhile at P6, Lachlan pushed further and superseded Yuki Ito. Kasma on the other hand played catch up and tried to close the gaps with Haruki. Azlan who lost his momentum in the beginning of the race quickly recovered as he took speed and closed the gaps with the riders ahead of him. With two laps to go, he worked his moves from P7 as he chased and squeezed Lachlan out furiously. Into the final lap, it was impossible for Zaqhwan at P2 to compete with Markus who was way ahead however, Andi began making his moves from the back waiting to strike. At the last turn, Markus fled towards victory logging in at 16’05:242s while Andi swiped past Zaqhwan into P2. Commenting on the race, Markus said, “My start was not so good. Anyway, it still arrived at the first position at the first corner. I braked at a latest possible point and suddenly and I saw the red Honda passing by from the inside and realised, oh, it was late and it definitely destroyed my rhythm a little bit. I nearly crashed at turn three but I tried to manage it as much as possible. I felt amazing on the machine and I didn’t push too much. I tried to do a constant smooth flow till the end. The machine was very fast and I thank my team for such an awesome machine. At the moment, it is easy to ride but like I said, the plans can change very quickly. We have to keep an eye open for the race tomorrow.” Teammates, Andi Farid Izdihar and Zaqhwan Zaidi made it to the second and third spot on the podium at 16’10:150s and 16’10:228s respectively. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

Captivating yet nerve-wrecking, the Asia Superbike 1000cc has always been one of the favourites among the ardent fans of high-powered machines. Round 4 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship began with the free practice sessions as riders geared up for another exciting feat at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit this morning and Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team emerged fastest for the day. Earlier this morning during FP1, Markus of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team was all out to seize the moment and made it fastest at 1’36:108s. At the second fastest was teammates, Indonesian rider, Andi Farid Izdihar and Malaysian, Zaqhwan Zaidi of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA at 1’36:676s and 1’38:111s respectively. In FP2, Markus once again hit it at the top at 1’35:907s. Andi Farid marked second fastest at 1’36:606s followed by Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team at 1’36:703s. In FP3, once again, Markus flexed his muscles as he went on to score the best lap time at 1’35:204s. Zaqhwan came in second fastest at 1’36:555 followed by Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc- Pro.Honda.Ph. For three consecutive rounds, Markus has showcased excellence in his showmanship. While Mandalika may be new, his experiences are amplified as he went on to secure the fastest lap time in all three practice sessions today making him the fastest for the day with his best lap time at 1’35:204s. Commenting on the session, Markus said, “I have never been here before so I tried really hard from the very first lap. The circuit is wide and flat so there were lots of space. I really enjoyed as we improved session by session. Suspension and electronics wise, we are already in a good shape and I still can improve on some parts. Nevertheless, for first day, this is quite satisfactory for me. I had some issues with the rear tires and had to stop to find a solution and hopefully it will be good for tomorrow’s race. For my side, I am comfortable and confident with the machine except for the rear tires. I am ready. But I have to bear in mind that there are really good riders in the race category especially Andi and Zaqhwan. Haruki may have not been showcasing much in the beginning but I believe he will come out strong during the race. Not forgetting Azlan for sure. So, let’s see how it goes.” At the second fastest was Zaqhwan Zaidi with his best at 1’36:555s followed by teammate Andi Farid at 1’36:606s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

It has been a striking show with the Asia Superbike riders in the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship this season. This time around, the roaring of machines will echo through the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in Round 4 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Andi Farid Izdihar of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA may be a debutante in the race category but he has moves and he is ready to flaunt it at his home-ground. Last season was a fantastic time for the Indonesian lad when he rose to fame as the championship for the SuperSports 600cc race category. While many would have expected a slow-rise for Andi this season, he nevertheless beat the odds and showcased consistency throughout three rounds. It is undeniable that the top three positions in the ASB1000 race category are guarded heavily by the mastery of highly-competitive riders but taking the fourth spot overall is quite an achievement to note. In the last round at Sugo circuit, Andi was quick to find his footing on the highly technical circuit. He landed himself at the fourth spot in Race 1 and took the second spot in Race 2. Some may say, it was luck on his side and some may say that he was quick to adapt. But according to him, “It was a difficult situation for me especially in Race 1 with the rain condition where we had to race with the rain tires and before the race ended, the surface became too dry to pick up speed. In Race 2, it was a completely dry situation and I could manage the race better although I did not have a very good start. I lost many positions but I kept pushing. With a number of riders crashing, it opened the pathway for me to finish at P2. That was my first podium for the season and I was really grateful for that memory.” On his move to ASB1000, Andi said, “The move has been quite a challenge for me. Completely different from the SS600 race category, in ASB1000 race category, more physical strength is needed to manage the heavier machine. It requires 100% concentration and quick thinking. I have learnt a lot this season and this learning curve is really important for better performances. I need to understand the machine and manage it better. Apart from that, being tip top physical wise is equally crucial to be a part of the ASB1000 race category.” On racing at his home-ground, Andi said, “I have not raced at Mandalika but I have had the privilege of practicing there a couple of times. The circuit is interesting with many high-speed corners. But along with it is the weather which is usually hot so it would be a nice to race there and since it is my home- ground, it is really important for me to win both the races. I know it is not going to be an easy feat but I faith in my team and I believe that they would do their best to achieve the same goal. Most importantly, the points – maximum points. It is the most I could do for my country.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

Asia Superbike 1000cc is an intriguing race category which encapsulates not only the speed of the machine but also the ability to weigh between riding techniques and calculated moves. In Race 2, Round 3 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship that was held at Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course, Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team showcased exemplary attributes that rewarded him with a victory. Taking a moment to reflect upon Race 1, Japanese rider Takume was off to a majestic start but soon started facing challenges of worn-out tires. Malaysian rider, Kasma used that to his advantage as he picked up pace la-by-lap before attacking him at the right time, with the right strategies in mind. German rider, Markus reduced his pace for a moment before jumping right back into the game. Japanese rider, Keisuke who was off the limelight for the first 17 laps emerged at the last lap to bag the third spot. Today, the race went on a high-speed chase once again with Markus taking lead in the first lap followed by Haruki at P2, Takume at P3 and Azlan Shah at P4. By the end of lap 2, the four riders in the front troop drew up a gap with the riders of the back troop. As TKKR rider, Markus glided confidently ahead, Takume was injecting pressure on Haruki. By the end of lap 3, Azlan was back into the pit. Meanwhile, the back troop was led by Kota Arakawa, followed by Rei Toshima, and Kasma. Among them, Kasma was seen moving fiercely forward and before the end of lap 4, he took over Rei Toshima’s position. Meanwhile, among the front troop, Takume took a slide ahead of Haruki. But, German rider, Markus was picking up speed with a gap of 1’452s. Down to 12 laps, Haruki took a slide from the inside ahead of Takume while Kasma pushed himself into P4. There was a huge gap between Takume and Kasma but the Yamaha rider was focused on closing the gap. With another 8 laps to go, Haruki crashed at turn one instantly opening the pathway for Kasma into P3. But luck was not on his side too when Kasma took a fall at turn one. With that, Markus was free of threats with a 5’074s away from Takume who was at P2. Meanwhile, taking P3 was Kota Arakawa followed by Andi Farid and Zaqhwan at P4 and P5 respectively. The two teammates worked towards closing the gap with the Japanese rider ahead. Kota Arakawa however does not intend to give up his position just yet. But Andi kept on with the pressure and finally overtook him. For Markus, it is all about maintaining his momentum and avoiding mistake. It was almost impossible then for Takume to bypass Markus. Unfortunately, Takume too took a fall. Andi moved into P2 and Zaqhwan took P3. At the final lap, Markus was on his way towards victory. Teammates Andi and Zaqhwan were leaning towards second and third position. With no mistakes made, the trio made it to the podium. Markus made an impressive 17’860s gap ahead when he clocked in at 26’42:374s. Commenting on the race, Markus said, “My weekend was almost perfect apart from the second place yesterday. I was still happy with the outcome yesterday but I can’t imagine a better race than today. It was really good. I could push from the very beginning as I have planned. I also studied the lap time from Noguchi as he was the strongest rider. I noticed that I could do a few laps very quick and then stabilise my lap time. So, I followed through with my plan and it happened. When I don’t hear the sound of machine and when I noticed the gaps, I relaxed a little so that I could keep it together till the end. Suddenly, I saw it was more than 17s since many riders crashed too. I thank my team for the machine.” Teammates Andi Farid Izdihar and Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA took the second and third spot at 27’00:223s and 27’00:558s respectively. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

The riders of the Asia Superbike 1000cc went on a blistering speed in their attempt to conquer the Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course in Race 1 of Round 3, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship and emerging ahead to claim victory was Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN. Earlier today, during the Qualifying Session, Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc-Pro. Honda. Ph. flaunted his mastery when he made a striking lap time at 1’27:610s which gave him an added advantage at the pole position. He was awarded with the “Pole Position Award” brought to you by SDG – Showa Denki Group and was presented by the Chief Executive Officer, Mr Kensaku Kashiwagi. Second fastest was Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team who clocked in at 1’27:780s followed by Takume Kunimine of TOHO Racing at the third spot with his best lap time at 1’27:972s. As the weather condition settled, the riders of ASB1000 were off to a great start with Takume at the lead position and Kota Arakawa at P2. Markus took P3. There was no wasting time with Takume as he went on a blistering speed ahead, drawing an almost 1 sec gap by the end of the first lap. Meanwhile, Malaysian rider, Azlan Shah was trying to catch up at P4. Pressured by Murayama, Azlan went on with impressive manoeuvring techniques to guard his position. At P6, Kasma was picking up speed in a bid to close the gap with rider ahead of him. Kota Arakawa on the other hand was getting closer to Takume and as intensity built up, Azlan managed to bypass his teammate, Markus. In an interesting twist, Kasma found his way ahead of Markus and went on to attack Azlan before finally striking from the inside. From P3, Kasma was on fire as he went on full steam to bring Kota Arakawa down and he did it. By then, Markus picked up speed and superseded Azlan. By mid-lap, Kasma began breathing down Takume’s neck. The gap was closing up and with 8 laps to go, Kasma worked his moves from the outside to take lead. Meanwhile, behind him, Markus sped up into P3 while Haruki worked on his strategies into P4. While Kasma went on to draw a wide gap, Markus inched closer towards Takume and from the inside, made it into P2. With 4 more laps to go, Andi trailed Takume diligently, finding ways to strike. He did, before speeding of ahead for another 2 laps. At the final lap, Kasma who managed to maintain his momentum was off towards a gleaming victory while Markus maintained at P2. At P3 though, Keisuke emerged ahead of Andi and concluded the race at the third spot. Kasma clocked in at 29’37:392s Commenting on the race, Kasma said, “In the beginning, I did not feel confident but I kept my eyes on the front group. I realised then that I had the potential to move forward therefore I tried to close the gaps lap-by-lap. My strategy worked and I am so thankful for my first win this season. There is another race tomorrow and I am keeping my fingers crossed to repeat the success.” Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team made it second at 20’39:529s. Keisuke Maeda of Team GYTR took the third spot at 29’42:993s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

Round 3 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship began today with the free practice sessions for the Asia Superbike 1000cc, SuperSports 600cc, Asia Production 250cc and TVS Asia One Make Championship race categories and ended with the qualifying session for the Underbone 150cc race category. Despite the chilly weather at the Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course, the riders of the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category were pumped up for yet another exciting show. Today, marking the fastest in the practice sessions, combined for Round 3 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship was Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team. In practice session 1 that was held earlier this morning, Andi Farid Izdihar of Honda-Asia Dream Racing with SHOWA was impressive when he showcased his agility in adapting to the circuit layout, clocking in his best lap time at 1’28:436s. At the second fastest was Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc-Pro. Honda. Ph. who marked his best at 1’28:748s followed by Rei Toshima of Dog Fight Racing at 1’29:051s. In practice session 2, Markus Reiterberger emerged fastest with a new record at 1’28:299s. Japanese riders Takume Kunimine of TOHO Racing and Rei Toshima logged in second and third fastest at 1’28:430s and 1’28:562s respectively. In the third practice session, Markus was on fire as he went on to mark a new lap record at 1’27:884s. At the second fastest spot was Haruki with his best time at 1’28:246s followed by Kota Arakawa of MOTO BUM HONDA with his best at 1’28:466s. That leaves with Markus taking the fastest spot in the practice sessions, combined. It’s an amazing achievement especially for a first-timer at the circuit which further accentuates his credentials as a well-established and experienced rider. Commenting on the session, Markus said, “The lap time was very impressive. We made a few changes again to the machine and I found a good tire combination which I am quite comfortable with. The tire is more or less consistent although I lost some grip over the lap. We definitely have to improve this but for the qualifying session and the race, I think we are there.” At the second fastest place was Haruki Noguchi followed by Takuma Kunimine at the third fastest spot in the practice sessions, combined. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

It is not just the speed that makes the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship intriguing but the striking dexterity of the rider that complements the machine that keeps the race exciting. Round 2 showcased the extraordinary abilities of Markus Reiterberger of the ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM as he flaunted his manoeuvring techniques at the Sepang International Circuit. As the troop prepares for Round 3 at the Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course, what has Markus got to say? Commenting on the upcoming race, Markus said, “I have not raced at Sugo circuit but I have heard some wonderful things about the circuit. Many have said that it is a nice circuit to race but also dangerous with no many “crash” area of gravel. Based on my evaluation on the on-board footage, I personally think that I would do fine but since I do not have the experience, it would still be challenging for me as I would have to start from zero-experience. Even more so, with most of my contenders who have had the experience riding on the circuit. Nevertheless, I will do my best with the help from my team.” The German born rider found his passion for ARRC in 2020 however his endeavours were brought to a halt when the global pandemic took the world down on a lockdown. His achievements nevertheless were rather impressive when he took the win in Race 2 that landed him on the second spot overall. The 29-year-old is no stranger to the motorcycle racing scene. He has been actively involved in numerous championships including the German Yamaha Cup, European Superstock 1000 championship and Superbike World Championship (WSBK) to name a few. His vast experiences and his showmanship on the circuit has earned him quite the reputation even more so in Round 2 at Sepang where he was seen fleeing ahead while the other riders played catch up. Markus said, “I like Sepang circuit since I was a kid. I used to watch it on TV and play it on the play- station. The layout is interesting. My first time there was in 2016 for WSBK but unfortunately, my machine gave way and I missed out on achieving a spot on the podium. However, it’s a special place for me. I recognise my strength and I enjoy riding there which makes it easy for me. There were also progresses with the machine during Sepang and that concluded with a happy ending for me.” Commenting on the experience in ARRC, Markus said, “2 years ago, I remembered that I was extremely fast. This season as well, I was fast but I had to push hard to achieve that. Chang circuit was tough compared to before. The competitiveness in ARRC has definitely increased and compared to IDM, there are maybe three fast riders in ARRC with top six who are strong. I hope that there will be more riders next year even more so now with our machine that is equally competitive with the other machines. “There are the likes of highly competitive riders such as Noguchi and Zaqhwan who are equally robust and, in my team, Azlan who make up for the best of rivalry. The others too, who are always close by which makes the race tough. However, we have a strong person who manages the suspension of the machine and works hard to ensure that the biggest part of the machine is well maintained. Of course, the electronic parts too which requires equal attention. On my part, it is more of mental and physical preparedness to manage the hot temperature. Overall, I will do my best in Sugo.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

Hitting straight into the limelight at blistering speed was Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM when he emerged victorious in Race 2, Round 2 of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship in the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category held at Sepang International Circuit. German rider, Markus definitely has his fingers wrapped around Sepang International Circuit and yesterday’s victory in Race 1 speaks volume of his abilities and strengths. While Malaysian riders Azlan and Zaqhwan took Japanese star, Haruki down in a nail-biting feat, today posed yet another round of extreme force between man and machine. Zaqhwan was off to a good start from the third position on the grid however seconds into the race, Markus geared up from the inside and grabbed P1. Haruki chased Zaqhwan furiously and seconds before the end of lap 1, he took a slide from the inside and into P2. Meanwhile, Kasma was struggling to keep up with his pace at P4 and by the end of lap 3, Azlan replaced him. Second day in a row, the BMW rider was topping up on speed and by the fifth lap, he has drawn up a gap of 0.700 seconds from the contender in line. Meanwhile, the other BMW rider was inching closer to the Honda rider ahead of him, waiting to strike and it was only a matter of time when he finally did. It is definitely a huge comeback for the BMW machines as it went on with powerful force, showcasing a one-of-a-kind capacity. Meanwhile, Andi Farid who was taking laps at P5 was getting closer to Zaqhwan and at the end of lap 10, he moved ahead into P4. With two more laps to go, it was only a matter of avoiding mistakes and maintaining the pace. Markus was on his way towards a double victory with a 3.057s gap and while Haruki did his best to get closer, it was to no avail. Meanwhile, Andi Farid was trying to close the gaps at the final lap however Azlan was at his best pace. Markus clocked in his best at 25’23:219s. Commenting on the race, Markus said, “I am really happy this weekend with maximum points in hand. Not in the championship though but as I’ve mentioned before, never forget to take a look at the competitors they are really strong. I have to push really hard. In the last two laps, I had some spare and I increased my speed. I am really happy for this weekend and am thankful to my team. Next round will be in Sugo. I have never been there so it is going to be difficult but I am really looking forward to it.” At second place, it was Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS HARC-PRO.HONDA.PH marking his best at 25’27:255s. Azlan Shah of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM made it at 25’31:070s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

It was quite a scene during the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category at the Sepang International Circuit with riders hitting their top speed in an endeavour to surpass the ordinary. However, the title is but for one. Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM triumphed as winner in Race 1, Round 2 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. The morning saw the qualifying session with Markus taking the limelight at the speed of lightning, clocking in at 2’05:010s. Kasma Danial Kasmayuddin of YAMAHA GEN BLU RACING TEAM ASEAN came in second fastest at 2’05:576s. Third on the grid was Zaqhwan Zaidi of HONDA ASIA-DREAM RACING WITH SHOWA at 2’05:771s. Markus went on a blistering speed as soon as the race flagged off. Zaqhwan who was trailing at P2 was superseded by Haruki mid lap 2. As Markus picked up speed steadily, Andi Farid took the opportunity to slide into P2 with Zaqhwan at P3 and Haruki at P4. Meanwhile, Azlan was seen trying to close the gaps however the four riders ahead of him kept him at bay. Nevertheless, persistence pays off and by the end of the fourth lap, Azlan broke into P3. The BMW M1000 RR machine is definitely one step above the rest in its speed. Proving that were Markus who drew up a huge gap with Azlan who was already pacing at P2. Haruki who was at P3 by the end of lap 7 engaged in a chase and succeeded Azlan at the last turn of lap 8. Zaqhwan, a little left out began to work on his strategies and mid lap 9, he made a daring move past Haruki and into P2. Amidst that chaos, Azlan took a slide into P3. By then, German rider, Markus was unbeatable with a 6- second gap. With 3 more laps to go, the pressure mounted as Zaqhwan, Haruki and Azlan entangled in a heated feat. The near miss and the close calls between Zaqhwan and Haruki only made them even more persistent. With one more lap to go, Azlan made it past Zaqhwan. Haruki dropped to P4. Markus was on his way to victory as Azlan and Zaqhwan went on one final push. At the final turn, the BMW machine took speed and bolted ahead as Honda succumbed at P3. Commenting on the race, Markus said, “It was an excellent race with an 8-second gap. To be honest, I don’t feel as good as the qualifying session though as the machine was really perfect then. Now, we tried something different on the rear to improve further for the heat especially but it is normal in the heat for the tires to lose grip compared to in cooler temperatures. I am glad that I could still fight although I was doubtful if I was fast enough. I kept pushing myself as much as I could. We have quite a good setup with the machine and I like Sepang a lot. To add on, it’s a 1-2 for the team. So, we can’t ask for more.” Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman marked his best at 25’37:402 while Zaqhwan made his fastest at 25’37:659s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

The roaring of the Asia Superbike 1000cc has begun at the Sepang International Circuit as riders gear up for Round 2 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). Round 1 saw Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS HARC-PRO.HONDA.PH. making waves on the circuit consequently taking lead in the overall standings. During Practice Session 1 this morning, Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM seem to be more confident when emerged fastest when he marked it at 2’07:092s. Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of HONDA- ASIA DREAM RACING WITH SHOWA made the second fastest at 2’07:407s. At the third fastest, it was Passawit Thitivararak of ASTEMO SI RACING WITH THAI HONDA at 2’08:507s. In Practice 2, Markus kept up to the momentum and made it fastest once again at 2’06:848s. Haruki who took his time to get adjusted to the pace made it second fastest at 2’07:447s. It may not be a significant increase in speed for Zaqhwan however he made it third fastest at 2’07:719s. Markus seemed relentless in making the cut for today and in Practice 3, his pursuit landed him fastest at 2’05:849s. Following up closely was Zaqhwan who made his fastest lap time at 2’07:257s and Passawit at 2’07:327s. As a result, Markus claimed fastest for today’s session followed by Zaqhwan and Passawit in the second and third fastest spot respectively. Commenting on the session, Markus said, “First of all, I am happy to come back to Sepang as I am pretty comfortable with the circuit. The humidity may be a little difficult for me nevertheless, I enjoy riding here. We changed the machine a little compared to Buriram, we improved. In the first and second practice, I was already at the first position but I didn’t feel so good on the machine. We were far away from the lap time in 2020 so we worked on the setting and tested a few times for FP3. While we have made it this far, there are improvements to be done on the grip. We shall see how it will be tomorrow. The weather can be unpredictable so if it rains, it may be different.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com