Malaysian Riders Battle Through Tough ATC Weekend at Sepang

Sharf Muhriz and Adam Danial faced a challenging Round 3 of the 2025 Asia Talent Cup at Sepang, with Sharf finishing 13th and 11th, while Adam retired in Race 2 after a crash.

Round 3 of the 2025 Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup (ATC) concluded at the Sepang International Circuit with challenging conditions and mixed fortunes for Malaysia’s homegrown talents, Sharf Muhriz and Adam Danial. Despite a promising start to the weekend, both riders faced setbacks during the races, while Japan’s Ryoto Ogiwara dominated with back-to-back victories in Race 1 and Race 2.

Promising Practice, Challenging Qualifying

Sharf and Adam kicked off the race weekend with solid performances in Free Practice 1 and 2, placing within the top 10. However, the qualifying session proved difficult. Under hot and dry conditions and amidst a crowded track, both riders struggled to find clean laps. Sharf qualified 12th and Adam 11th.

Race 1: Battling Through

Race 1, held on Sunday morning, saw both Malaysians off to a strong start and briefly joining the leading pack. Unfortunately, mistakes from riders ahead forced them off their lines—disrupting their rhythm and dropping them down the order. Sharf crossed the line in 13th, followed by Adam in 15th.

“In Race 1, I was in a good group, but the rider in front of me made a mistake, and since I was right behind him, I also went off track,” Sharf shared after the race.

Adam echoed similar frustrations:

“I tried to catch the front group, but a few mistakes cost me, and I lost contact with them.”

Race 2: Heat and Heartbreak

Race 2 commenced under blistering afternoon heat. Both riders launched well, but Adam’s campaign ended early when he crashed out at Turn 15 on lap 4. Sharf, undeterred, fought hard in the third group of riders and finished 11th after a gritty battle for the top 8.

“Race 2 started well for me, but I made a small mistake that caused me to run off the circuit,” Sharf explained. “I’m quite disappointed with the result, but I’m determined to come back stronger in the next round.”

Adam reflected on his crash:

“Although I was running a good pace, I couldn’t control the bike and crashed early. I accept the outcome and will do my best in Japan.”

Next Stop: Motegi, Japan

With Round 3 now complete, all eyes turn to Mobility Resort Motegi for Round 4 of the 2025 Asia Talent Cup, scheduled for 27–28 September. Both Sharf and Adam will be aiming for redemption and stronger finishes as they continue to represent Malaysia on the regional stage.