Azlan Shah Makes Shock Comeback in 2025 ARRC

Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman has joined the A1 Energy BMW Racing Team for the 2025 ARRC ASB1000 competition, partnering with Apiwath Wongthananon. 

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In a stunning reversal of his retirement decision, Malaysian racing legend Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman will return to competition in the 2025 Asian Motorcycle Championship (ARRC) with the newly-formed A1 Energy BMW Racing Team.

The 40-year-old former 2019 ASB1000 champion, who announced his retirement after a rough 2024 season with ONEXOX TKKR Racing Team, has been lured back by an enticing offer from the new local racing team. The team will also field Thailand’s reigning Supersport 600 champion, Apiwath Wongthananon, marking a strong two-rider lineup for their debut season.

Azlan will campaign the latest BMW M1000RR, a machine he believes gives him the tools to compete at the front once again. “Last season I faced a lot of difficulties, not only in terms of results on the track, but also it affected my mental state as a rider. I almost gave up on everything,” Azlan admitted.

“However, when offered the opportunity with A1 Energy, supported by BMW and Alpha Racing, I feel this is the time to rise again. I want to challenge the young riders and help the team achieve success.”

Apiwath, making his ASB1000 debut after dominating Supersport 600 in 2024, is eager to learn from Azlan while setting his sights high. “I am excited to challenge for the championship. This is my first time riding a BMW, so I will learn from Azlan, who is more experienced. My target is to become the ASB1000 champion this year,” the Thai rider declared.

A1 Energy BMW Racing Team principal Noor Hirman Mohd. Esa emphasized that their ARRC campaign is part of a broader strategy to establish the team as a regional powerhouse. “We are committed to making the A1 Energy BMW Racing Team a team that not only competes, but also leads and sets new benchmarks in engineering, rider development and professional management,” he said.

The 2025 ARRC season kicks off at Thailand’s Chang International Circuit from 25-27 April, with Azlan’s comeback making tmore interesting to an already stacked field. His return not only boosts the championship’s star power but also sets up a fascinating dynamic between the seasoned veteran and the rising talents of Asian motorsport.

Fans can expect a fiercely competitive season as Azlan aims to prove that age is just a number, while Apiwath seeks to make an immediate impact in the premier class.