Hakim Danish Impresses with Fastest Lap at Malaysian GP Despite Early Retirement

The young Malaysian rider Hakim Danish showed world-class potential at Sepang, setting the fastest lap in Moto3 before a technical failure forced him out of the race.

Subscribe to our Instagram Channel for instant news & updates!

Malaysian rider Hakim Danish left a strong impression at the 2025 Moto3 Malaysian Grand Prix, despite being forced to retire early due to a technical issue. The AEON Credit SIC Racing MSi rider, competing as a wildcard, stunned the crowd at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) by setting the fastest lap of the race at 2 minutes 11.066 seconds, proving his ability to compete with the world’s best riders.

At just 18 years old, Hakim was running comfortably within the top 10 when his bike suddenly lost power at Turn 1, forcing him to retire from the race. Had the issue not occurred, the Terengganu-born rider was on course to finish in the points, a result that would have been a major milestone in front of his home fans.

The weekend, however, was a significant learning experience for the young Malaysian, who will make his full-season debut in the 2026 Moto3 World Championship with the MSi Racing Team. “I had to retire early due to a technical issue, and my team is still inspecting the bike,” said Hakim. “Even so, I’m very happy to have competed against the world’s top riders. It was an invaluable experience, I got to see how fast they are and understand the level of competition on the world stage. If not for the technical problem, I believe I could have finished in a points position.”

Hakim also thanked his team and Malaysian fans for their support throughout the weekend. “Although I’m a little disappointed not to finish, I was thrilled to see the massive support from the grandstands. The cheers from the fans were a huge motivation for me. I’ve learned a lot this weekend, about riding style, control, and race strategy, and I’ll use that experience to improve for next season,” he added.

Hakim’s weekend began strongly, setting the 8th fastest time in Free Practice 1 (2:11.317) and later qualifying for Q2 with a lap of 2:11.820. He continued his strong pace in FP2, clocking the 6th fastest time (2:10.576), demonstrating consistency and competitiveness throughout the sessions.

Team manager Zulfahmi Khairudin expressed pride in Hakim’s performance despite the setback. “It was a disappointing end as Hakim’s bike suffered a technical failure midway through the race,” said Zulfahmi. “However, he gave his best throughout the weekend and showed incredible potential. The issue was confirmed to be an engine failure, something beyond our control. I’m proud of his effort and grateful to everyone who supported this programme and his career journey.”

The day at Sepang was also overshadowed by a serious incident during the Moto3 sighting lap involving Jose Antonio Rueda and Noah Dettwiler, who were both airlifted to hospital. “The atmosphere was quite somber after the accident, but I truly appreciate the extraordinary support from Malaysian MotoGP fans who were there to cheer on Hakim,” added Zulfahmi.

Despite not finishing, Hakim Danish’s blistering pace and fighting spirit showcased his immense talent, a promising sign as he prepares to take on the 2026 Moto3 season full-time on the world stage.