The opening round of the MAM MALAYSIA SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP 2026 at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit featured the Berjaya Sompo YAMAHA R15M Race Elites category practice sessions, where Ahmad Malek Ridha topped the combined practice session. In Practice 1, Muhd Ikram Dani set the fastest lap with a time of 2’54.578s. He was followed by Malek in second with a time of 2’56.413s, and Muhd Afiq Syazanie Muhd Zaini in third at 2’56.561s. In Practice 2, Malek set the fastest lap time of 2’51.488s, reaching a top speed of 116.36km/h, to lead the group. Md Farhan Naqib Mohd Faiz who posted a time of 2’51.685s, finished 0.197s behind Malek in second, while Ikram took third with a time of 2’51.738s. Overall, Malek was the fastest across both sessions, with Farhan and Ikram rounding out the top three. Malek commented, “During FP2 earlier, I focused on finding a better setup and improving my racing line. Tomorrow, I will aim to perform even better than today.” TOP 3 FASTEST – FREE PRACTICE (COMBINED) AHMAD MALEK RIDHA – KUALA LUMPUR (2’51.488s) MD FARHAN NAQIB MOHD FAIZ – MELAKA (2’51.685s) MUHD IKRAM DANI – SELANGOR (2’51.738s) NUZZUL ADY MUHAMMAD SUDIN – PAHANG (2’52.094s) SHAHUZZAIFIE ADLI SHAFENDI – SELANGOR (2’52.894s)
In a move that has captured attention across the paddock, Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman returns to the MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) 2026 in the premier MSBK1000 A category, but this time, with an unexpected twist. Long synonymous with BMW machinery, Azlan’s switch to a Suzuki platform signals not just a change of bike, but a bold new chapter in a career built on experience, adaptability, and race-winning intelligence. For many, the image of Azlan on anything other than a BMW may have once seemed unlikely. Yet, for a rider of his calibre, evolution has always been part of the journey. What makes this transition particularly significant is not just Azlan’s role as a rider, but his value as a technical leader within the team. With years of top-level racing experience under his belt, Azlan brings with him a depth of knowledge that extends far beyond the throttle. It is something that proves invaluable in the highly competitive MSBK1000 A field. In fact, his presence within the team, AMI SUZUKI MOTORSPORT, goes beyond personal performance. Azlan has taken on a crucial role in guiding development and accelerating the progress of those around him, including fellow rider Adam Norrodin. Sharing insight into his responsibilities, Azlan explained, “My role within the team goes beyond just riding. I’ve been working closely with the crew to refine the overall setup and contribute to the development of the bike. There are always many areas that need to be understood and improved, especially when it comes to electronics and suspension. These are critical elements that can make a significant difference in performance. At the same time, I’ve been supporting Adam Norrodin to help him adapt more quickly by sharing my experience and working together on finding a stronger base setup. The goal is to help him reach a more competitive level as soon as possible, not just for the upcoming races, but also in the long term. For me, it’s about building something sustainable. When the team improves as a whole, the results will follow. I believe that by working together and continuously developing the package, we can become stronger with each round.” Azlan’s approach reflects the mindset of a seasoned rider who understands that success in modern superbike racing is no longer defined by individual brilliance alone, but by collective progress and technical precision. As he adapts to the Suzuki machine, questions remain on how quickly he can unlock its full potential in race conditions. However, if there is one certainty, it is that Azlan’s experience will play a decisive role, not just in his own campaign, but in shaping the trajectory of the entire team. In a championship where marginal gains can define the outcome, having a rider who can both perform and elevate those around him is a rare asset. And in 2026, Azlan may once again prove that his greatest strength lies not only in his speed, but in the legacy he builds within the team.
The MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship 2026 marks a bold and defining transition for Khairulamirin Yahaya, as the FKR CHV RACING rider steps up to the highly competitive MSBK600 category for the first time in his career. After competing in the MSBK250 A category last season, where he concluded the championship 11th overall, Amirin now finds himself entering unfamiliar territory. The move to Supersport machinery represents not just a progression in class, but a complete shift in performance demands, technical complexity, and race dynamics. Amirin said, “For the 2026 season, the team decided to take on a new challenge by entering the Supersport category, and they’ve entrusted me with the responsibility of racing in this class after our time together in the MSBK250 A category. As a rider, this truly feels like a first for me, as I’ve never competed in the Supersport category before. In many ways, I consider myself a newcomer at this level, and I know there is a lot for me to learn.” “On top of that, the team has chosen the Ducati Panigale V2 for this campaign, which makes this project even more exciting and unique. From what I understand, this could be the first time the Ducati Panigale V2 is being raced in the MSBK600 class, so it’s a very special debut for both the team and the bike,” He added. The introduction of the Ducati Panigale V2 adds another compelling layer to Amirin’s 2026 campaign. Known for its power and character, the machine presents a new set of challenges, especially for a rider transitioning from smaller capacity bikes. Despite the step up in horsepower, Amirin remains grounded in his approach. “There’s no real pressure placed on me this season. The team’s objective is clear—we want to focus on collecting as much data as possible, working on suspension setup, and most importantly, building my familiarity with the Ducati. This is my first time racing a bike with this level of power, so adapting will take time. That said, I do have some experience managing strong torque from my time competing in the Spanish Supermoto Championship on a 450cc Husqvarna, which I believe will help me adjust. Personally, I’m very happy with this transition. I’m excited to see how far we can push, not just in terms of my own development as a rider, but also in achieving the right balance and performance with the bike as a team.” With a fresh challenge, a unique machine, and a team committed to long-term development, the 2026 season could prove to be a pivotal turning point in his career. For Amirin, the journey into MSBK600 is not just about results. It’s about growth, discovery, and laying the foundation for something bigger.
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.”