The intensity is set to peak as the Asia Superbike 1000cc (ASB1000) category gears up for a thrilling season finale in the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship this weekend at the Chang International Circuit, Buriram.
The battle lines are drawn, with Andi Farid Izdihar of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with Astemo and Yuki Kunii of SDG Team HARC-PRO Honda Ph. leading the charge.
Yuki Kunii has turned heads with his meteoric rise in the standings. After a lackluster start, Kunii stormed back into contention with a double win at Sepang, followed by a podium in Mandalika and a dominating performance in Round 5. Now, just two points behind the leader, Kunii faces the ultimate test at Chang.
Kunii shared his mindset heading into the weekend “The pressure will mount, but it’s all about managing it. Chang Circuit is fast, and the competition is fierce. I’m confident in my bike’s performance and will give my all. Let’s see how it unfolds.”
For Andi Farid, the journey has been one of resilience. Despite setbacks, including a DNF in Round 3, the Indonesian ace rebounded on home turf to reclaim his position at the top. With a strong track record at Chang, Andi is poised to make his mark.
Andi remains composed “Racing alongside top talents motivates me. I focus on my performance and take lessons from every race. I’m ready, but the competition is unpredictable, which makes it even more exciting.”
Other Key Contenders are Hafizh Syahrin (JDT Racing Team) The Malaysian rider has shown consistency but faces a challenging task on unfamiliar terrain, and Nakarin Atiratphuvapat (Honda Asia-Dream Racing) Racing on home soil, the Thai rider hopes to leverage the crowd’s support but will need to perfect his execution.
With the championship on the line and minimal points separating the top riders, the Chang International Circuit promises to be a crucible of high-speed drama. Known for its technical sectors and sweeping turns, the track will test every rider’s skill, strategy, and mental fortitude.
The season finale is more than a race—it’s a showdown of champions. The stakes are high, the competition fierce, and the anticipation electrifying. Whether it’s Kunii’s momentum, Andi’s grit, or a surprise from Syahrin or Nakarin, one thing is certain: the ASB1000 finale will be a spectacle to remember.
Credit Photo : Simon Yap/SNE-Photo
