Confirming what had been the suspicion at the MotoGP test in Thailand, the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 team has confirmed that Hafizh Syahrin will race with the squad for the 2018 season.
The Malaysian rider showed good pace on the Yamaha YZR-M1, and promises a great deal of potential to the satellite MotoGP squad – more importantly, he fit into the tight criteria that team boss Herve Poncharal required for Folger’s replacement.
For those who don’t recall, Jonas Folger decided to sit out this year’s racing, after health issues related to Gilbert’s Syndrome, a genetic disorder of the liver which causes chronic fatigue.
This left the Tech 3 squad in interesting waters, with very little time ahead of the MotoGP season-opener, to say nothing about the pre-season tests.
Syahrin should be a good substitute for Folger though. At the very least, he will help Tech 3 maintain is racing commitments, both to MotoGP and to sponsors.
At the very best though, he could surprise some GP fans with his results. Poncharal has a keen eye for talent, after all.
“I’m incredibly delighted after receiving the good news, that I will ride with Monster Yamaha Tech3 in 2018. Following three very interesting and great days of testing in Buriram, where I learned a lot, I want to thank my crew again, especially Nico and Maxime, but also Johann and Laurent for their advices,” said Syahrin in a press release.
“In just a short time, I really learned to fully control a MotoGP bike, which is still unbelievable for me. I’ll try to do my best and will give all I have this year. I want to thank Hervé, Yamaha Motor Corporation, Monster and the entire Tech3 team to believe in me and giving me this fantastic opportunity to compete full season in MotoGP.”
“Thank you to my family, that always supported me to make this dream come true, especially my father, plus thanks to my fans and of course to Razlan. I’m looking forward to test again in Qatar and I’ll be even more motivated. Honestly, I can’t wait for the season to start. I’m just overwhelmed!”
Source: Monster Yamaha Tech 3
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