M’sian rider Hafizh Syahrin praised for “fantastic job”

BANGKOK: The principal team for Monster Yamaha Tech 3 MotoGP has praised Malaysian rider, Hafizh Syahrin for his “fantastic job” during the just-concluded MotoGP pre-season winter test at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram.

According to Herve Poncharal, a decision on Hafizh’s future with the French-based MotoGP team would be made soon.

“I know everyone is expecting a decision regarding Hafiz Syahrin. All I can say right now is that he has done a fantastic job during this test, showing great motivation, willing to learn and speed on track in a really good atmosphere with the team,” he said yesterday.

He said the team needed to share the details with all its partners before making the decision on whether to make the Malaysian a permanent rider with the team.

Selangor-born Hafizh, 23, who secured three podium finishes during his four Moto 2 season before this, became the first Malaysian to participate in the prestigious MotoGP when he was given an opportunity to test with the team in Buriram, along with the team’s permanent rider, Johann Zarco.

The French-based team are struggling to find a late replacement after their current rider, Germany’s Jonas Folger withdrew due to health reason.

The team had already tested Colombian rider, Yonny Hernandez during the recent MotoGP pre-season winter test at the Sepang International Circuit.

The three-day Winter Test at Buriram’s Chang International Circuit, northeast of Thailand began last Friday and ended yesterday. The 4,554-metre circuit designed by Hermann Tilke will host the MotoGP for the very first time in October this year.

Meanwhile, Hafizh said he was very pleased with his performance on the last day of the Winter Test in Buriram, clocking an impressive time of 1’31.537 during lap 47 which placed him on 21st position, ahead of several other riders including multiple World Champion Jorge Lorenzo.