The title chase in the SuperSports 600cc class is certain to be the attention-stealer in the final round of the 2017 Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. However, there is a strong chance that the title fight may happen off the podium.
The Chang International Circuit is home to a strong contingent of Thai riders representing all sides of the manufacturer divide.
The Yamaha Racing Thailand squad boasts the most experience with Decha Kraisart and Chalermpol Polamai at the helm. As full season riders, the duo are not wildcards in the literal sense of the word. However, they are serious contenders of the top step of the podium and they could potentially impact the outcome of the title chase in a big way, even though they are not in contention for the 600cc crown this year.
Decca and Chalermpol will be joined by their team mate and 2016 Asia Production 250cc Champion, Apiwat Wongthananon. Apiwat had just ended his first season in the Moto3 World Junior Championship where he finished 12th overall in the rankings.
The riders from AP Honda Racing Thailand, Ratthapong Wilairot and Tatsuya Yamaguchi, can also be expected to mount a serious challenge for the final two race wins of the year.
There are also a number of interesting wildcards in the final round. The ARRC welcomes back talented young Australian rider, Broc Pearson who will be racing as a wildcard with RAMA Honda by NTS T.Pro Ten10. Thitipong ‘Tingnote’ Warokorn will also enter astride a Kawasaki with the Kawasaki Thailand Racing Team.
