After years of waiting for the right opportunity, 2026 marks an emotional return for Nazirul Izzat Md Bahauddin as he makes his comeback to the MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) in the MSBK250 category, seven years after his last appearance in the class in 2019. This season, Nazirul will line up under the banner of Team ACR, ending a long period away from the 250cc machinery that once defined an important chapter of his racing journey. Since stepping away from the category, Nazirul has continued to stay active in other championships, competing primarily in the 150cc class. While he remained competitive, the ambition to one day return to the larger-capacity machine never faded. For Nazirul, this is more than simply a move back to a familiar class — it is the return he has quietly hoped for over the years. The transition, however, will not come without its challenges. Having spent several seasons adapting to smaller-displacement motorcycles, the switch back to a 250cc machine demands a completely different rhythm, riding style, and physical adjustment. It will also be his first time riding a 250cc bike in competitive conditions since 2019, making this comeback both exciting and demanding. Nazirul admitted that finally receiving the opportunity again was a deeply meaningful moment in his career. “Alhamdulillah, I am truly grateful to finally be given the opportunity to return to a 250cc machine after such a long wait. This is something I have been hoping for for quite some time, so to be able to experience this again means a lot to me personally. I would like to thank Team ACR for their trust and for giving me this chance. Their belief in me is something I deeply appreciate, and I hope this can become the beginning of a positive new chapter in my career. Because it has been quite some time since I last rode a full-sized 250cc machine, I know I may need a little time to find the right setup and readjust myself completely. Even so, I am fully committed to giving my best in the opening round and doing everything I can to make this return count.” Nazirul’s return adds another compelling storyline to the 2026 MSBK250 grid, with fans eager to see how quickly he can rediscover the form that once made him a familiar name in the category. While the opening round may be about rebuilding confidence and adapting to the machine once again, Nazirul enters the season with something many riders understand well — unfinished ambition. And for Nazirul, the road back to MSBK250 may just be the beginning.
Season 2026 of the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) Season 2026 of the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) will commence in May with a 4-round calendar. The partnership between PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Two Wheels Motor Racing Sdn. Bhd. (TWMR) continues with the shared vision of progressively transforming the standards of motorcycle racing championships for both professionals and enthusiasts alike. Ron Hogg, Promotions Director of TWMR commented, “Year 2025 has marked another milestone for the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK), with participation expanding to include even more countries, riders and teams. This growth showcases the championship’s increasing recognition, visibility and appeal not only within Asia but also across the global motorsport community. The diversity, as a matter of fact is not only a reflection of confidence held upon the championship as a credible platform for competition and development but also serves as a fundamental platform that enriches the competitive landscape, offering our riders the much-needed exposure to a wider range of racing styles and strategies. This consequently provides invaluable experience, ensuring that they gain a well-rounded perspective that prepares them for higher levels of competition. Such developments are not only exciting but also essential in accelerating the progress of the championship on the global front, strengthening its reputation and entry-list year after year.” “Moving forward, our goal remains to widen outreach and diversify participation. Beyond serving as a testing ground for professional riders, MSBK continues to inspire aspiring talents, motivating them to pursue greater milestones. We are pleased to note that confirmed participants for Season 2026 include entries from neighbouring countries and beyond, further validating the championship’s growing international stature.” Azhan Shafriman Hanif, Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, added, “Firstly, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to TWMR for their pivotal role in uplifting the MSBK since 2019. We are proud of the progress MSBK has achieved, particularly with the expanded international participation in 2025. This growth is a testament to our strong partnership with TWMR and reflects the championship’s rising global profile. MSBK has become not only an important platform for riders but also a significant boost to tourism, drawing fans from across the region and beyond to our world-class circuit. We are excited for what Season 2026 holds, confident that this partnership will continue to elevate the racing industry, offering more opportunities for brands to connect with the sport and its diverse audience.”