Amirul Hafiq Azmi had a difficult time adjusting to the track as he was only 31st fastest in 2:09.481, a hefty 3.313 seconds behind Italy
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian riders in the World Championship season opener at the Qatar Grand Prix had a slow start in the free practice sessions at the Losail International Circuit.
In the Moto3 class, Zulfahmi Khairuddin could only post the 21st fastest time on his Honda. He clocked 2:07.965, 1.797 seconds behind pace setter Romano Fenati of Italy.
Debutant Amirul Hafiq Azmi had a difficult time adjusting to the track as he was only 31st fastest in 2:09.481, a hefty 3.313 seconds behind Fenati.
“It is the first time I’m riding at the circuit, so I have a lot of learning to do. The track is a bit difficult for me and I need more time,” said Amirul, who missed the final pre-season test in Jerez last week due to a wrist injury.
“On the positive side, the bike is in perfect condition and hopefully I’ll keep on improving,” he added.
In Moto2, veteran Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman was the best Malaysian performer. He clocked the 27th fastest time in 2:02.406, 1.884 seconds behind team-mate and fastest rider Takaaki Nakagami of Japan.
Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah, meanwhile, clocked 2:02.860 for 30th spot.
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