The selection of Zaqhwan Zaidi, a Moto2 wildcard rider at last year’s Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix, was announced last week by SIC Chief Executive Officer Dato' Razlan Razali at the official launch ceremony of the 2014 eni FIM World Superbike Championship Malaysian Round.
Zaqhwan Zaidi will be racing under Team Ten Kate Racing Products led by Team Manager Ronald Ten Kate. The Dutch team has had successful involvement in the championships for over 20 years – including nine world titles, it demonstrates beyond doubt that Ten Kate has the expertise and experience needed to run a competitive race team for the world’s largest and most successful motorcycle manufacturer.
“Of course we’re very excited to enter Zaqhwan Zaidi into the World Supersport race at Sepang in Malaysia on our Honda CBR600RR machine. It will be a nice opportunity and a good share of information. It’s very important that when the championship visits any new country there should be a local rider to generate interest and I’m very happy that Ten Kate Racing Products can be a part of this experience in Sepang. We’re looking forward to an exciting and successful weekend for everyone involved.” said Ronald when interviewed by the team in Assen.
Commenting on his selection, Zaqhwan, who was crashed out of last year’s Moto 2 race, thanked SIC for the confidence and trust given to him to fly the Jalur Gemilang (the flag of Malaysia) again on the world stage.
“Undoubtedly, I am happy and proud to be given this opportunity again. Naturally, I would be giving my very best and make Malaysians proud. This will be another great milestone to my racing career and develop me further as a rider. I was unfortunate in the Moto2 race last year in Sepang. Hopefully, I would do better this time round and gain more experience,” said Zaqhwan, who will the support of former GP rider, Shahrol Yuzy Ahmad Zaini for the programme.
Local rider Zaqhwan Zaidi to wildcard the WSS race at Sepang
The 18 year old from Kajang to make a one-off appearance on his home track.