Hafizh aims for breakthrough at ‘second home’
Syahrin Abdullah hopes to make a much-needed breakthrough when he takes to the track at his “second home” — the Spanish Motorcycle Grand Prix — this weekend.
The Jerez circuit, where the team had tested in November, should provide a good opportunity for Hafizh to make amends following a poor start to his MotoGP season.
The Red Bull KTM Tech3 rider has yet to score a point this season having struggled to adapt after his team made the switch from Yamaha to KTM machinery this year.
There were indications that Hafizh was settling in when he finished 16th in Argentina in lateMarch, but it was back to the drawing board after he came in last (18th) in Austin last month.
Hafizh said: “This season has been quite difficult.
“We were struggling during the first race, improved during the second round, but struggled again last time out in Texas,” said Hafizh.
‘I don’t really understand everything at the moment, but I believe we can fight.
“The team are pushing really hard and I feel better prepared. After Austin, I was working harder on my physical condition, so I hope we will arrive in Jerez in good shape.”
Tech3 principal Herve Poncharal hopes Hafizh will be able to live up to the potential he has in Jerez.
“Spain is his second home because this is where his base is during the European season.
“We expect a tough battle in between Miguel (Oliveira) and Hafizh. Hopefully, they will push each other, this is what we want to see.”
Rookie teammate Oliveira has already scored seven points this season.