The Repsol Honda Team kicked off their defence of the MotoGP World Championship by having 2011 MotoGP World Champion Casey Stoner and team-mate Dani Pedrosa take the wraps off their all-new Honda RC213Vs at a news conference on the eve of the start of the official testing season in Sepang, Malaysia. Joining the riders was HRC Executive Vice President Shuhei Nakamoto, who gave a brief and light-hearted technical presentation while making certain not to reveal too many secrets.

The 2011 Repsol Honda three-rider team dominated last year’s championship, winning 13 of 17 races and finishing first, third, and fourth overall. Stoner led the way, winning ten times and clinching his second MotoGP World Championship on a emotional day in his home grand prix at Phillip Island, Australia. Stoner had a nearly flawless season, with podium appearances in every race but one, when he was knocked to the ground early in the Spanish Grand Prix. That turned out to be a minor setback, with Stoner winning the title by 90 points. Then Repsol Honda rider Andrea Dovizioso finished third, with Pedrosa finishing a close fourth, despite missing four races after being knocked out of the French Grand Prix. Pedrosa won three times and added six other podiums.

The Honda RC213V replaces the championship-winning 800cc RC212V as the MotoGP World Championship begins a new1000cc era. The machine was developed over the course of the last season, with Stoner testing it three times and Pedrosa twice, with continuous development and testing being done in Japan. Pedrosa finished the 2011 season by topping Stoner in the end-of-season test in Valencia, Spain.

The riders begin their three-day test yesterday, at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). Following this test, the riders will return in 26 days for a second test before finishing the testing season in Spain at Jerez de la Frontera in late March.

The return to Sepang was bittersweet for the Repsol Honda Team. It was here that Honda’s rising star Marco Simoncelli lost his life in a racing accident on the second lap of the 2011 Malaysian Grand Prix. The entire Repsol Honda team visited the corner where “Super Sic” lost his life, laid a wreath of flowers, and held a minute’s silence.

Casey Stoner finished on the podium in nearly every round last season on his way to winning the championship

Casey Stoner, Repsol Honda RC213V:
“We haven’t started this year, and going from 800s to 1000s I think it’s going to be a little bit more interesting during the pre-season, trying to understand where everybody’s level is, as well as what everybody’s machine level is. We know we have a lot of work to do now before the first race and that’s what we’re focused on doing. But how we can envision this championship going, we have no idea.

“We’re just going to do the best job we can at these tests, try and put ourselves in the best position we can for race one and start the championship well. But we don’t really know everybody else’s level or where we’re going to have to improve. I think Honda have done a fantastic job to give us this bike that we’re going to start with and hopefully we can improve it over these next tests. Hopefully, we’re going to do a little bit better job than the other manufacturers.”

After suffering from injury in 2011, Dani Pedrosa will return to Honda fully fit and in his best physical shape in years

Dani Pedrosa, Repsol Honda RC213V:
“Yes, it’s clear I’ve been good all this time. I could enjoy the holidays and think of other things than being in the hospital or things in recovery. So I could be with family and friends and enjoy the time.

“About the season, as Casey (Stoner) said, there are lots of things to feel in the pre-season, a lot of tests and we have to figure out how we are for the first race. How the rivals are also. And just work, because it’s going to be for sure a long season and the battles are going to be strong, as always. It can be similar to last season or it can be different. Nobody knows at the moment, but actually the thing is to work hard and keep the head until the end.”

Shuhei Nakamoto, HRC Executive Vice President:
“The engine and chassis were developed last year because of the regulation change. We kept the same concept from the last year’s 800 machine. We expect this machine to be competitive enough to win the championship again this year. Even with the 800 machine you must reduce the power from first through fourth gear. With the 800, fifth gear, sixth gear, we could use the full power, then in a straight line.

“Of course this machine is a little bit faster. But time was gained only in fifth and sixth gear in the acceleration area. At the same time, the top speed is higher, meaning sometimes you must brake a little bit earlier. Then the cornering performance, if the chassis or tyres are virtually the same, it means that the cornering performance is exactly the same. So the new engine couldn’t make such a big difference. Then if you want gain the time, therefore you need more braking stability. And also we are having our chattering problems that we have to fix. Then I expect, of course, the lap time is better than 800, but not such a big difference, I expect.”

The Superlight R300 Championship will also be part of the revamped Malaysian Super Series calendar next year featuring 4 rounds of explosive racing action at the Sepang International Circuit.

The Circuit, which hosts the World’s best drivers for the Formula 1 Malaysia Grand Prix each year, will see a grid of 16 or more race prepared R300s do battle in what is considered to be one of the closest and most competitive championships in motorsport.

With their proven 175bhp Ford Duratec 2.0-litre engines and dedicated race chassis, the R300 Championship is currently the ultimate Caterham Seven series.

The expansion of the R300 Championship, having established itself as one of the finest motorsport series in the UK and Europe, will see the existing formula replicated in Malaysia but will be held exclusively at the Sepang International Circuit. The new championship will be backed by AirAsia with the first race weekend commencing in 25th – 27th May, 2012.

Ansar Ali, Chief Executive of Caterham Cars, said: “We’re hugely excited to be officially launching the championship and demonstrating how fantastic Caterham Seven racing is, especially at such a renowned circuit which the Formula 1 drivers enjoy so much.

“We already have plans to expand the grids to over 40 cars in the coming years; we know how much appetite there is for motorsport in the East and this is a terrific platform on which to continue expanding our motorsport and road car business in this part of the world.”

Operating the series will be Caterham Motorsport’s Malaysian partner, the prominent Thunder Asia Racing Team, run by Raja Zaini. It will manage race package sales, build the race vehicles, provide technical support, transport and race organisation. All this for   RM150,000 package for a five-race season per driver.

Please visit http://www.caterham.co.uk or call 0044-1883-333-700 for more information.

PROTON R3 Racing Team is on course to finish the season in style as they made it a 1-2 after a rain hit qualifying session in Class 2 the Sepang 1000 KM held at the Sepang International Circuit today.

Led by Malaysian Touring Car Championship champion, Faidzil Alang, they qualified at the front of the grid with co-driver, James Veerapen in a Satria with an average best time of 2:51.667.

Faidzil set a time of 2:41.456 with Veerapen clocking a time of 3:01.877 to lead their team mates, Syafiq Ali and Syahrizal Jamaludin who recorded an average best time of 2:53797.

Lai Wee Sing, KK Soon and Wong Yew Choong gate crashed Proton Motorsports year end as they qualified in third with a time of 2:54.979, threatening to derail Proton R3 Racing Team’s hopes of completing a dream season for the local automotive manufacturer.

Faidzil & co will be aiming to end their barren run since the event began in 2009, completing what would be an unprecedented hat-trick of titles in the local and international racing scene for Proton Motorsports after dominating the Asia Pacific Rally Championship and Malaysian Touring Car Championships (MTC) in the Malaysian Super Series (MSS).

Modest and humble as he was, Faidzil preferred to sing praises of James’ performance, crediting him with their machine’s controlled performance in the wet conditions.

“James produced a superb performance, driving in the wet today. I couldn’t have done it without him.

“I want to say thank you to Proton for giving us a good car. We hope to do well in the race tomorrow,” said Faidzil.

The downpour today gave an indication of what to expect tomorrow in the 9 hour, 181 lap race with James keen to avoid any mishaps which could cost them the race.

“We have to make sure we stay on the track. It’s difficult to drive on the wet. There are puddles all over the track.

“We have a calculated race plan to deal with this and most importantly we have to make sure we finish the race,” added James.

In the Class 1, the trio of Kenny Lee Wan Yuen, Chris O’ Shannessy and Chan Yit Foong shot out of the blocks as they recorded a time of 2:53.318 to place themselves second overall alongside Proton R3 in the front row.

The flag off, involving a total of 28 cars is set for 1pm, with the race scheduled to end at 10 pm.

Besides watching the action unfold at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), fans would also get the opportunity to purchase exclusive Formula One tickets for the unbelievable price of RM10. The offer which ends tomorrow will see 1,000 hillstand tickets up for grabs on a first come first serve basis.

Tickets will be sold at the pass collection centre @ PG3 (just before paddock tunnel) and Corporate Suite 6, Main Grandstand Mall Area. Counter tickets will be opened during the duration of the race and will continue to be open even after all the 1000 tickets have been sold.

Those who miss out on the exclusive RM10 tickets can still opt to purchase Early Bird F1 tickets, with tickets going for 50% less except for Main Grandstand.

SIC Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Razlan Razali, in announcing this exclusive once in a life time promotion, explained the rationale behind the offer, saying that it was SIC’s way to thank the fans for their support during the 14 years of F1 in Malaysia.

“This exclusive offer should by no means considered as a sales strategy, rather as a way for SIC to thank the fans for their support during the 14 years of F1 in Malaysia.

“SIC as the home of motorsports and we play a big part in promoting motorsports in Malaysia. We want more fans, from all walks of life to come and experience the real thrill of motorsports, and what better way for them to do that, than to come to Malaysian Grand Prix.

Besides ticket sales, there will be many other side activities held during the race including pocket bikes demonstrations, drifting, go-kart rides and motorclub gatherings.

For the fans, they will be in for a treat as it would only cost them RM30 to enjoy the drift demonstration and taxi ride at PA1, pocket bike and go-kart ride from 9 am to 5 pm.

PROTON Motorsports will be hoping to cap a wonderful season in the local and international racing scene with a win in the Sepang 1000 KM, putting the icing on the cake for what has been an incredible 2011 for the renowned domestic motorsports giant.

Led by their R3 Racing Team, Faidzil Alang & co will be aiming to end their barren run since the event began in 2009, completing an unprecedented hat-trick of titles in the local and international racing scene for Proton Motorsports after dominating the Asia Pacific Rally Championship and Malaysian Touring Car Championships (MTC) in the Malaysian Super Series (MSS).

Faidzil will be hoping to continue his good form last weekend when he bagged the overall title in the MTC finishing the season with a whopping 230 points, 80 points above team mate, Syafiq Ali in a 1-2 finish for R3.

“Of course everyone wants to win, our target is to finish the race, winning it is a bonus. It’s been a good year for Proton thus far.

“It’s good if we can make our bosses happy. It’s the last event of the year and we’ll be hoping to finish the year with a bang,” said the boyish looking 40 year old at the pre-race press conference at the Sepang International today.

Faidzil was joined by his co-driver, James Veerapan in a Satria Neo and fellow team mates, Syafiq and Syahrizal Jamaludin in a Gen 2.

Also attending the press conference were fellow competitors in the Class 2 (up to 1600 cc), Red Bull Rookies Racing Team and Thunder Asia Racing Team.

Although short of experience, Red Bull Rookies will be banking on their youthful adrenaline in their quest to finish the grueling 9 hours, 181 laps race.

“Our target is to finish the race and to avoid any accidents. I have some experience racing before in the Formula BMW and hope to share my experience with my other team mates,” said Siti Syakirah, 19 who competed in the support series at the Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix this year.

Completing the line-up are Fauziah Haziz, 26 and Amirah, 21. Thunder Asia Racing Team opted to take a relaxed approach to the race illustrated by the easy going nature of their driver, Melvin Choo.

“We came here for a holiday after a hard season of racing. This race is more of a team bonding exercise, rather to enjoy the race and have fun while we are at it,” said Melvin.

Melvin who has experience racing in Super GT will be joined by Asian Touring Car Champion, Eric Yeo and female Japanese driver, Hiroko Nakamura.

Qualifying begins tomorrow while the flag off for the race is at1 pm Saturday. The race is scheduled to end at10 pm.

Besides watching the action unfold at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), fans would also get the opportunity to purchase exclusive Formula One tickets for the unbelievable price of RM10. For a limited time only, 1,000 hill stand tickets will be up for grabs for the fans on a first come first serve basis.

Tickets will be sold at the pass collection centre @ PG3 (just before paddock tunnel) and Corporate Suite 6, Main Grandstand Mall Area. Counter tickets will be opened during the duration of the race and will continue to be open even after all the 1000 tickets have been sold.

Those who miss out on the exclusive RM10 tickets can still opt to purchase Early Bird F1 tickets,  with tickets going for 50% less except for Main Grandstand.

SIC Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Razlan Razali, in announcing this exclusive once in a life time  promotion, explained the rationale behind the offer, saying that it was SIC’s way to thank  the fans for their support during the 14 years of F1 in Malaysia.

“This exclusive offer should by no means consider as a sales strategy, rather as a way for SIC to thank the fans for their support during the 14 years of F1 in Malaysia.

“SIC as the home of motorsports and we play a big part in promoting motorsports  in Malaysia. We want more fans, from all walks of life to come and experience the real thrill of motorsports, and what better way for them to do that, than to come to Malaysian Grand Prix.

Besides ticket sales, there will be many other side activities held during the race including pocket bikes demonstrations, drifting, go-kart rides and motorclub gatherings.

For the fans, they will be in for a treat as it would only cost them RM30 to enjoy the drift demonstration and taxi ride at PA1, pocket bike and go-kart ride from9 amto5 pm.

Malaysia’s premier national motorsports championship will be undergoing a revamp next season in light of current rule changes which will be introduced for the MotoGP in 2012.

With the introduction of Moto3, replacing the 125 cc, Sepang International Circuit (SIC) – the organizers of the MSS – are in the midst of creating a 250 cc platform for local riders to facilitate their entry into the world championships.

“From next year onwards, there will be no 125 cc class as it will be replaced by the Moto3. There will be a Moto3 wildcard next year, and MSS will be the best platform for the riders to make their way into the world championships,” said SIC Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Razlan Razali at the cocktail party in conjunction of the MSS finale last weekend.

“We are in the midst of discussions with Boon Siew Honda and Kawasaki to create a new 250 cc platform to aid in the development of motorsports.

“If all goes well, I hope to convey to you all the good news by the end of next month. The 250 cc platform will also aid in the development of riders who want to make the transition into the 600 cc,” added Razlan.

FIM have announced from next season onwards, the introduction of a new Moto3 class, with 250cc four-stroke engines featuring as a replacement for the 125cc bikes – meaning all three classes of MotoGP will feature four-stroke machines.

Meanwhile, the MSS finale was a nail biting affair as Muhammad Zamri Baba emerged victorious in the Supersports category, edging in front of his closest rival, Ahmad Fuad Baharuddin by the narrowest of margins.

The Petronas Yamaha Malaysia rider finished at the top of the standings with 190 points, identical to Ahmad Fuad (Bike Art Racing) but was announced overall champion based on his greater number of wins.

His two wins in Race 1 and 2 helped him stave off a late challenge from Ahmad Fuad and in the process overcome a 14 point deficit after having to forego the previous round due to his involvement in the Malaysian MotoGP last month.

Zamri, who was selected as one of the 2 wildcards in the Moto2 had an extra reason to cheer this weekend after securing the Supersports overall title for the first time, coming a day after he celebrated his 28th birthday yesterday.

“This is the perfect birthday present for me after turning 28 yesterday. This win coupled with the prize money is one of the biggest that I have received in my career.

“This overall trophy wasn’t something that I had expected in my many years of involvement in motorsports and will spur to me to keep on going as far as I can in my career,” added Zamri.

Hafizh Syahrin, who also had to skip the previous round due to his involvement as Moto2 wildcard in the MotoGP, showed he was ready to take over the mantle of Malaysia’s top rider in the future when he finished third overall with 126 points.

Zamri’s efforts during the 5 round race this season saw him pocket RM6,000 while Ahmad Fuad went home RM5,000 richer followed by Hafizh who collected RM4,000.

In the Superbikes A, the absence of closest challenger, Glenn Allerton from Australia, paved the way for Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman to romp home with the overall title in the Superbikes A after winning both Race 1 and Race 2.

Azlan, on a Honda CBR1000 made it 2 back to back titles in the MSS after emerging triumphant in the Supersports category last year, proved that he had what it takes to make the step up the ladder when he finished atop the standings with 217.5 points.

Allerton, riding a BMW S1000RR who also had to give round 3 a miss, had to settle for the runner up spot with 130 points followed by Luca Cassoni, also on a Honda CBR1000 in 3rd (119 points).

In the GT Class, Dilantha Malagamuwa cruised to his 3rd overall victory with 2 third place finishes enough for him to secure his hat-trick of titles after 2006 and 2007.

It was his victory in the premier GT Class with both of his victories before him coming in the Supercar championship.

Singaporean, Mok Weng Sun threatened to spoil the party by winning both races but it wasn’t enough to prevent the Sri Lankan from maintaining his championship lead, finishing 10 points above closest challenger, Ian Mao.

Dilantha closed out 2011 with 175 points followed by Ian from Team Porsche Club Singapore (165) and Team Porsche Club Singapore team mate, Weng Sun (125).

As expected, Faidzil Alang, closed out on his Malaysian Touring Car season in style as he finished a massive 80 points in front of his team mate, Syafiq Ali.

It was a good day for Proton R3 as Syafiq made it a 1-2 for the development racing team who are eyeing the Sepang 1000 KM, scheduled next week from the 1st to 3rd December.

Standings – Supersports

Rider Team Make Total
1 Muhammad Zamri Baba (Petronas Yamaha Malaysia) Yamaha R6 190 points
2 Ahmad Fuad Baharuddin (Bike Art Racing) Kawasaki ZX6R 190 points
3 Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah (Petronas Syntium Moto) Yamaha R6 126 points

Results
Race 1

Rider Total time
1 Muhammad Zamri Baba 22:16.808
2 Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah 22:16.940
3 Ahmad Fuad Baharuddin 22:25.771

Race 2

Rider Total time
1 Muhammad Zamri Baba 22:41.644
2 Ahmad Fuad Baharuddi 22:42.015
3 Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah 22.42.026

Standings – GT /SP/ TP/ MTC

Driver Team Model Points
1 Dilantha Malagamuwa (Dilango Racing) Lamborghini 175 points
2 Ian Mao (Porsche Club) Porsche 996 GT3 165 points
3 W S Mok (Porsche Club) Porsche 996 GT3 125 points

Results

Race 1
GT /SP/ TP/ MTC
Driver Total time
1 Mok Weng Sun 21:36.227
2 Ian Mao 22:27.406
3 Dilantha Malagamuwa 22:38.937

Race 2
Driver Total time
1 Mok Weng Sun 21:33.535
2 Ian Mao 22:32.162
3 Dilantha Malagamuwa 23:10.243

Proton finished the 2011 Malaysian Super Series Championship (MSS) as champion in the 1.6 Touring Car Category.

Driver Faidzil Alang drove a textbook race in the fifth and final round of the season at the Sepang International Circuit to clinch the coveted title behind the wheel of a Satria Neo.

Proton team mate, Syafiq Ali, in the Proton Gen2, sealed a Proton 1-2 in the championship with the two drivers concluding what has been a dominant performance all year long.

An all-Proton front row dominated the final 10-lap race of the year with the younger Syafiq starting from pole position, just 0.037 seconds ahead of the more experienced Faidzil.

“The results today conclude what has been a triumphant year for Proton in motorsports, particularly for the Satria Neo that has excelled in both circuit racing and international rallying,” said Proton’s Director of Group Marketing and Branding, John Doody Chacko.

“It’s phenomenal that Proton’s commitment to be better is now beginning to translate into excellence and this is a tremendous boost in supporting our efforts to enhance brand awareness and acceptance on the domestic, regional and international fronts.”

He added that the Satria Neo’s solid performance in 2011 has helped to successfully establish a strong foundation for Proton in international motorsports.

Meanwhile, Head of Proton Motorsports Datuk Abdul Razak Dawood said, “We’ve done very well in the Asia Pacific Rally Championship winning all the 8 major individual titles. We are now focussing on our R3 Racing team and after completing all the 5 rounds of the MSS and fininishing 1-2 in the championship, we are now in our final phase of preparation for the Sepang 1000km or S1K next week. We’ve completed most of the development work and the emphasis next week will be on endurance.”

The team has tested the potential drivers and will be announcing the driver line-up for the race next week.

After giving round 4 a miss, Sri Lankan speed demon, Dilantha Malagamuwa is back to heat up the track in the fifth and final round of the Malaysian Super Series as he closes in on his hat-trick of titles in the GT Class at the Sepang International Circuit this weekend.

Dilantha who had opted out of the previous round early October due to commitments in the Asian GT in Japan, did not lose any sleep over his absence as he still holds a comfortable lead over his closest rival, Ian Mao (Team Porsche Club Singapore) but is not taking anything for granted this time around.

“I did not participate in the previous round of the MSS as I was in Japan for the GT Asia. Even though I had to fore go the fourth round, I still managed to maintain my lead at the top of the standings.

“But with only one more round left, I’m not taking anything for granted as I only have a 20 point lead over Ian and in racing anything can happen,” said Dilantha.

Dilantha who leads the standings with 145 points, will be riding on a high this weekend after finishing second overall in the just concluded GT Asia season.

“I finished second in the GT Class in Macau and overall second in the GT Asia season. Now I’m hoping to continue with my good performance with a win this week to seal my hatrick of GT Class titles.

The popular Sri Lankan, who doubles up as a racing instructor in Sepang, thus giving him inside knowledge of the track, will have to do it the hard way as he won’t have the use of his favourite ‘steed’, the Lamborghini as it was still parked in Macau.

“I will be relying on my Porsche as my Lamborghini is still in Macau. Even though I won’t be driving my favourite ‘Lambo’, I’m still confident of my chances as I’ve won before in my Porsche in the 3rd round.

“I’m hoping for history to repeat itself and finishing top of the standings for the 3rd time will be the perfect way to end this fantastic season,” added Dilantha.

Round 5 will also see the return of the top bikers, Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah and Mohd Zamri Baba back in action as they continue their assault on the Supersports category.

Giving round 4 a miss due to their involvement in the Malaysian MotoGP last October as Moto2 wildcards, Hafiz and Zamri are back to stamp their authority, with Ahmad Fuad Baharudin, taking full advantage of their absence to steal the thunder from his rivals.

The Global Bike Art Racing rider did not have to work out a sweat as he was miles ahead of his closest challenger, Mohd Iskandar Raduan in both races to overtake Zamri in the standings by 14 points.

But Petronas Yamaha Malaysia rider, who will be turning 28th this Saturday is aiming for the perfect birthday present as a win in both races will guarantee Zamri the title, completing what has already been a fantastic season so far for the Seremban born rider.

“I will be celebrating my birthday this 26th (November) and winning the overall title would be the perfect way to end this season. I will be turning 28, but I don’t plan on quitting as I feel that there are many years of racing in me to continue beyond my 30’s” said Zamri.

Besides the final rounds for cars and bikes, the Formula Pilota China season will be making its debut in Sepang with the popular single-seater championships reaches its exciting conclusion this weekend.

Taking its inspiration from the extremely successful Formula Abarth in Europe, the Formula Pilota China was established in China this year, providing a platform for youngsters to further develop their single-seater career.

Sepang International Circuit was chosen as the finale for its debut season, with Sepang the only stop outside of China in its 12 round calendar featuring Guangzhou, Shanghai, Ordos and Zhuhai.

Formula Pilota China hopes to bring a new concept to the Asian motorsports by offering the latest ”state of the art” machines at an affordable price. The vehicle of Formula Pilota features chassis manufactured by the Italian Tatuus, engine of 1,400cc turbo powered by FPT (Fiat Power Train), which provides 180bhp and outstanding aerodynamics.

The previous round which was concluded at Shanghai Tianma Circuit saw Matheo Tuscher emerge champion with Lorenzo Camplese capturing second place and Dustin Sofyan taking overall 3rd and winner of the Asian trophy.

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has recently celebrated the 2011 World Food Week by launching a new partnership in support of the global effort to eradicate hunger and Malaysia’s own role in disaster response in Asia.

SIC is the first Malaysian private sector partner for WFP’s “Malaysia for Asia” initiative, a joint WFP/Government of Malaysia project to boost disaster response capacity in the region through the recently established UN Humanitarian Response Depot in Subang.

The facility is hosted by the Government of Malaysia, which has funded the construction and committed US$1 million per year to its running costs.

SIC aims to raise RM1.5 million over the next year for WFP’s work fighting hunger worldwide, mainly through fund-raising activities and cause-related marketing.

The first public fund-raising drive took place over the MotoGP weekend (21-23 October), and a range of WFP merchandise was available for purchase in SIC stores at the circuit.

“Nearly a billion people around the world go to bed hungry every night, most of them here in Asia,” said SIC Chief Executive Officer Dato Razlan Razali.

“The race to defeat global hunger is one we know can be won, and SIC is proud to stand with WFP and be a part of this vital effort for mankind.”

As part of SIC’s commitment to the partnership, Malaysia’s most exciting young motorsport talent Zulfahmi Khairuddin and this year’s 125cc Wildcard Rider Muhammad Farid Badrul Hisam will also be dedicating some of their time to raising awareness about the work of WFP and the fight against hunger.

Zulfahmi, features the WFP logo across his helmet’s visor while Farid, features the WFP logos on his motorcycle, suit and in his pit garage.

“This is a new and exciting partnership for the World Food Programme,” said WFP Regional Director for Asia, Kenro Oshidari.

“We are enormously grateful for Malaysia’s support – from the government, from SIC and from Zulfahmi.

“Motorsport has a truly global reach, and SIC is perfectly positioned to champion our cause. I come from Japan, so I know how passionate people can be about MotoGP – we are equally passionate about ending hunger!”

On behalf of Sepang International Circuit (SIC), I wish to extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to Marco Simoncelli’s family members, team-mates, fellow riders and the whole MotoGP family. We share the pain and shock of the tragic and heartbreaking loss of Marco Simoncelli on 23 October 2011.

Marco will be remembered as a talented rider and a flamboyant character who never failed to put a smile on the faces of the racing fraternity and his fans with his cheerful demeanour. Above all, he was a great man and a competitor who was destined for even greater things both on and off the track. MotoGP and the racing world is now a lesser place without him.

SIC would like to state that the decision to cancel the race was taken after considering the severity of the accident. The decision was agreed upon by SIC and Dorna Sports SL, the commercial rights holder of MotoGP. SIC made public announcements on the cancellation of the race and Marco’s death as soon as we were authorised to do so, with priority being given to officially inform Marco’s family members first. I hope that fans can understand the situation prevalent at the time.

SIC would like to reiterate that all preparations and precautionary steps were taken to ensure we staged a safe race in accordance with FIM, AAM and Dorna safety requirements. However, the inherently dangerous nature of motorsports does not allow a race organiser or track owner to give a guarantee that nothing untoward will happen during a race.

The Sepang International Circuit is acknowledged as having been designed to be a safe circuit and managed by a team of experienced personnel, on and off track, to handle race events professionally. We work to the highest safety standards and we will continue to ensure these standards are met at every race held at our circuit.

At the race on Sunday, circuit personnel acted speedily and professionally to attend to Marco as soon as the accident happened. Despite all that was done, the medical team could not change the outcome of the situation given the severity of his injuries. In the aftermath of this sad tragedy, we will work with FIM and Dorna to see if there is anything else we can do to improve rider safety in races.

We at SIC are honoured to have had Marco gracing our tracks with his dazzling skills and panache all these years. To Marco, may you rest in peace. You will be missed. Addio Super Sic.

Dato’ Mokhzani Mahathir

The world of MotoGP mourns as Italy, family, friends and fans wept on Sunday as number 58, Marco Simoncelli who rode for Honda Gresini succumbed to his injuries following a crash at the 2011 Malaysian MotoGP motorcycle race on 23rd October. He was 24.

Simoncelli sufferred severe chest, head and neck injuries after he lost control of his Honda Gresini motorcycle midway of turn 11 almost completing his second lap in fourth position, after trading corners with Rizla Suzuki rider Álvaro Bautista and battling for fourth place, just four minutes after the green light was given for the race to begin, but still held the the racing line as he hung precariously off his bike as it somehow kept on gripping when it usually washes away from the rider.

Simoncelli’s bike somehow maintained its turning trajectory coming out of the right-hander and found himself on a collision course with American Colin Edwards and Italy’s Valentino Rossi as he swerved across the track. Upon impact, Edwards lost control with a tumbling end in the grass, but thankfully Rossi managed to stay upright on his bike as both riders escaped any serious injuries, which could have further escalated the situation.

The impact was so great that fears immediately turned to grim reality as Simoncelli’s AGV GP-Tech helmet (the same helmet that Rossi dons) was seen rolling away on the grass as he lay motionless not far from the exit of the turn on the hot tarmac causing the red flag to be  immediately waved to stop the race, which caused many fans to react, unbeknownst to the severity of the Italian’s injuries and subsequent passing.

Out on the paddock, Valentino Rossi, who had just unveiled Ducati’s mini Monster 795 last Thursday night, was hard hit with grief as he realised moments later that his fellow compatriot and close friend was pronounced dead at 4:56pm local time by MotoGP Medical Director, Dr. Michele Macchiagodena who gave a statement:

“I’m very sad to be here to report about the death of Marco Simoncelli, a friend. Because of the crash he had during the race, in which he was hit by other riders, he suffered a very serious trauma to the head, to the neck and the chest. When our medical staff got to him he was unconscious. In the ambulance because there was a cardiac arrest they started CPR (cardiac pulmonary resuscitation). Immediately in the Medical Centre, with the help also of the Doctor of our staff at the Clinica Mobile and local Doctors, he was intubated and it was possible to take off some blood from the thorax. The CPR was continued for 45 minutes because we tried to help him for as long as we thought it was possible. Unfortunately it was not possible to help him and at 16:56 (local time) we had to declare he was dead.”

Answering a question about the condition of Colin Edwards, who was involved in the incident, Michele Macchiagodena said: “He had a dislocation of the shoulder and with anaesthesia the shoulder now is in the correct position. He is fine.”

Race Direction Member, Paul Butler, responded to a question about Marco Simoncelli’s helmet coming off in the crash by saying: “I think if I may reply, that will be for another occasion. Quite clearly the consequences and circumstances surrounding the accident will be thoroughly investigated.”

Italy too, mourns the loss of the young and talented 24 year old MotoGP rider as Gianni Petrucci, president of Italian sport’s governing body CONI, mandated a minute’s silence before the commencement of all football matches with players donning a black arm band as tribute to their fellow Italian who’s no stranger to the word’s lime-light.

Aussie Repsol Honda rider Casey Stoner, newly crowned MotoGP Champion and Simoncelli’s Honda teammate said: ”As soon as I saw the footage it just makes you sick inside. Whenever the helmet comes off that’s not a good sign. I am in shock and saddened by the loss of Marco. When these things happen they make you remember how precious life is and I’m very upset. I’m close to Marco’s family, I can’t imagine what they’re going through and our thoughts and wishes are with them at this time. I hope they all stay close and pull through this tragedy together.”

Repsol Honda rider Andrea Dovizioso paid tribute to his fellow Italian saying: ”In these circumstances, words don’t seem to be appropriate. I think of Marco’s family and all the people dear to him, in particular his father and mother. I also have a child and what happened today is the hardest situation you can imagine. I watched the images and I’m shocked. In a race you fight and push hard and disaster is often around the corner. Marco was a strong rider and he always pushed hard. We raced together since we were kids. I saw him always pushing to the maximum, he crashed many times, but without major injuries, he was seemed invincible. What happened today seems impossible.”

Carlo Pernat, Simoncelli’s manager, maintains that the youngster would have gone on to great things and went on the state: ”Marco was a cheery boy, everyone’s friend,” Pernat said. “He had expectations, dreams. He was a boy from days gone by, with a wonderful family who taught him good values. It’s terrible, there are no words, everyone’s very upset, he could have become world champion one day. He had this desire to get to the top, it was really inside him, there was this desire for success because he knew he could have it.”

Spanish Repsol Honda rider Dani Pedrosa said: ”In a tragedy like this there is not much to say. I just want to give my condolences to his family and all the people who love him. I’ve been with his father and all we could do was to hug, nothing else matters. It was a fatal accident and everybody in the paddock remains in shock. Many times we ourselves forget how dangerous this sport can be and when you lose people on the way nothing has any meaning. It’s clear that we all do what we like, what we love, but on days like today nothing matters.”

A statement released by Ducati read: “The Ducati team and its riders feel the pain which has hit all in MotoGP today. We will always remember Marco for his smile, his availability, his huge heart and for the emotions which he has made us experience in the past few years. He was one of us.”

Nick Hayden, who helped launch the first official Dainese Store in Malaysia and Ducati rider added: “It is a very awful day for all of us. I saw Marco fall and get hit by the other bikes. I feel a really strong pain. On the track, we’re all brothers and part of the same family. We’ll miss Marco so much, he was a really good lad and now I don’t know what to say, only that I hope he rests in peace.”

Shuhei Nakamoto, HRC Executive Vice President, says “I just don’t know what to say; words escape me. Marco was a very nice guy and a very talented rider. Sometimes I was a little harsh with him, for example after his first MotoGP podium in Brno when I told him, ‘Lucky podium!’ and he was so angry, but I wanted to motivate him as I knew he was able to do even more. I was thinking that when he won his first race we would have been able to celebrate together. Now I just want to say thank you to Marco, for what you gave me, and pass my sincere condolences to his family at this very sad time.”

Even Australian Formula One driver, Mark Webber tweeted: “R.I.P Marco A special talent that will be missed… Thinking of your loved ones, and all the motogp paddock..mark.”

Our heartfelt thoughts and condelences go out to the friends and family of Number 58, Marco Simoncelli of Honda Gresini. Ciao Marco.

Feel free to leave your dedications for Marco Simoncelli below.