Malaysian Moto3 rider Hakim Danish has vowed to continue improving after securing an impressive seventh-place finish at the Moto3 Tissot Grand Prix of the Netherlands 2026, describing the race as one of the toughest of his season so far.
The AEON Credit-MT Helmets-MSi rider climbed from 16th on the grid to finish seventh following post-race penalties for three riders ahead of him, collecting valuable championship points that lifted his tally to 82 points after 10 rounds, strengthening his position in sixth place in the Moto3 World Championship standings.
Despite narrowly missing out on a podium challenge, the young Malaysian believes the experience at the TT Circuit Assen will prove invaluable as he continues his development.
Reflecting on his performance, Hakim admitted he had to push at full intensity throughout the race while battling among the front group.
“I managed to finish the race in seventh place today. It was a very challenging race because I had to push at maximum intensity on every lap right until the chequered flag.”
The 18-year-old enjoyed an excellent launch from the sixth row, making up several positions during the opening laps before fighting his way into the leading group.
“I made a good start and tried to overtake the riders one by one to move into the front group.”
Hakim even found himself chasing race winner Maximo Quiles and David Almansa during the middle stages of the race.
“I tried to catch Maximo Quiles and David Almansa, but their pace was simply faster than mine.”
After climbing into podium contention, Hakim revealed that rear tyre degradation prevented him from maintaining his pace during the closing laps.
“In the final five laps, I started having problems with my rear tyre. I tried to defend my position and continued fighting for the podium, but unfortunately I couldn’t make it.”
Although disappointed to miss out on a career-best Moto3 finish, the Malaysian youngster remains encouraged by his overall performance.
Hakim believes every race provides another opportunity to develop as he continues his rookie Moto3 campaign.
“I will use this race as another learning experience to improve my weaknesses. I want to take everything I’ve learned today into the next race.”
He added that the Assen weekend gives him confidence heading into the next round.
“Overall, I’m happy with the performance I showed today, and now I can’t wait for the next race at Sachsenring.”
Hakim also took time to acknowledge everyone who has supported his journey throughout the season.
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to all of my sponsors, especially AEON Credit Service Malaysia, the AEON Credit-MT Helmets-MSi team, my family, and all the supporters who continue to believe in me and stand behind me.”
The Malaysian talent concluded with a promise to keep working relentlessly as he pursues stronger results on the world stage.
“I will continue working hard, giving my very best in every race, and doing everything I can to raise Malaysia’s name on the international stage.”
With confidence growing and valuable points secured at Assen, Hakim Danish now shifts his attention to Sachsenring, aiming to build on another encouraging weekend as he continues his impressive Moto3 campaign.
Credit Photo : ZK Racing
