TVS Asia One Make Championship gets bigger and bolder and it’s about to scorch the circuit ground of Chang International Circuit this weekend at the season opener of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. For the third consecutive year, the blue and red hues of TVS Asia will adorn the paddock to challenge and raise the benchmarks for Season 2025.
Hiroki Ono of Japan took Season 2024 by a storm and wowed fans when he rose to the challenge and bagged the championship trophy for the TVS Asia race category with a total of 251 points. It was an expected outcome considering the 25-points he clocked-in race after race except for Race 2 in both Mandalika and Sepang. The rider flexed his prowess relentlessly and marked his territories on the circuit grounds with no fear of being defeated. The question is, would Hiroki be able to live up to his own benchmark this season, more so with the brewing rivalry with his closest contender?
Hiroki said, “Frankly, I have no pressure although my rivals are getting faster and better. But that is what motivates me further. Looking at the season’s rider line-up, I find it quite exciting and I am really looking forward to it. I am pretty sure that Ramdan will still be my closest rival but I also think there are many other strong contenders this season. Having said that, I am also well prepared for the challenges. It is also an advantage that I enjoy riding in all circuits, but of course, my favourite would be the Mobility Resort Motegi. At the end of the day, my goal is only one regardless of the circuits. It is to become the champion for the second consecutive year and for that, I will give my all and do my best.”
Ramdan Rosli of Malaysia settled for second best last season but clearly, that does not sum up his best efforts especially with his known capacities to knock down the best in town. While the struggles are inevitable with pressure continuously stinging along the way, Ramdan nevertheless showcased wit and grit to make the most of the circumstances while progressively raising his profile. Looking at the previous season though, Hiroki may not be the only one posing threat but up and coming Indian rider, Sartak Chavan could potentially induce risks for the Malaysian lad.
Ramdan said, “The eyes are on the prize – champion trophy. It is my goal, to bring home the pride and joy of being a champion. I will push and motivate myself to give 110% for Season 2025. Speaking of contenders, I believe different rider has different approach and styles and as such, the race will always remain competitive. For me, I always see where my advantage is and strike while the iron is hot. Chang circuit, for me, is not a tough one. But that’s also a circuit where you can find riders flocking in one big group. For now, the team has worked on the machine to improve its performance compared to last year however we will know until we test the bike on the track. My goal is to win and to finish on the podium in all races. Of course, it won’t be easy but that’s the motivation.”
TVS Asia will be back with a 15-rider line-up this season, nine of which are familiar names and another six, new entries entirely from Spain, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Australia who will compete in the TVS Asia series. The series will also see participation of wildcards riders periodically over the course of six rounds.