Race
Moto2 2024
Round 19

Chantra Finishes 9th While Aji’s Efforts Go Unrewarded in Sepang

my Sepang International Circuit

The IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia riders completed an intense penultimate round of the Moto2 World Championship at the Sepang International Circuit.

Chantra Finishes 9th While Aji’s Efforts Go Unrewarded in Sepang

In a challenging race, Somkiat Chantra advanced from 15th on the grid to secure a hard-fought 9th-place finish. Meanwhile, Mario Aji faced bad luck early on, as a crash directly in front of him at the start cost him valuable time, making his comeback more difficult. He ultimately crossed the line in 17th place.


Hiroshi Aoyama
Hiroshi Aoyama
Today’s Moto2 race took place under extremely hot conditions—probably the hottest we’ve experienced all week. Both air and track temperatures were very high, making it a demanding 17-lap race.
Our riders started towards the back, so it was challenging, especially during the first lap. A crash in front of Mario Aji caused him to lose around six seconds right at the start. After that, he kept his rhythm but struggled slightly with pace, ultimately finishing 17th.
Somkiat Chantra maintained his focus from the beginning, climbing from 15th to finish in 9th place. It was a decent race, though we had hoped for a stronger position.
Despite the challenges, we’re carrying this momentum forward into the final Grand Prix. Mario continues to gain experience, and Chantra shows podium potential, so we’ll aim to push hard in the last race. Thanks to our supporters and our riders for their hard work.

Somkiat Chantra
Somkiat Chantra 35
IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia
Today’s race here in Malaysia was challenging. The high track temperatures meant everyone was running at a similar pace. I found my rhythm bit by bit, gained positions, and ultimately finished 9th. It’s a solid result but not exactly what we aimed for.
We know our potential, and with only one race remaining, I want to give everything I have to bring the best possible result for the team and end these all amazing years together in an amazing style. 

Mario Aji
Mario Aji 34
IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia
It’s been a competitive weekend, but during the race, like many others, I struggled from the start. My goal was to manage the tires until the end, but overtaking proved difficult on this track.
Despite the result, there were many positives from this weekend, particularly in practice and qualifying, where we made significant progress. We were close to breaking into Q2, which only fuels my motivation. Although the race didn’t go as planned, I’ve learned a lot. I need to keep pushing, evaluating, and improving for the future.
Thanks to my team for their guidance and settings, which helped me feel comfortable on the bike. I’m pleased with the progress, if not the result. 


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