Zulfahmi: Hakim’s resilience key to his maiden Moto3 podium finish

PETALING JAYA: Sepang International Circuit (SIC) Racing team manager Zulfahmi Khairuddin hailed Hakim Danish Ramli’s resilience after the teenager battled back from a crash-hit weekend to claim his maiden Moto3 World Championship podium at the Italian Grand Prix in Mugello on Sunday.

The 18-year-old finished third in the race to secure a breakthrough result in his rookie season and end Malaysia’s wait for a Moto3 podium since Khairul Idham Pawi’s victory in Argentina in 2016.

Hakim’s achievement was all the more impressive after he crashed twice during Friday’s practice sessions, casting doubt over his chances of challenging at the front.

“After the crashes during practice, many doubted whether Hakim would be able to return and compete at such a high level in such a short time. But he showed the true mentality and character of a racer,” said Zulfahmi.

“He bounced back with confidence, overcame every challenge and secured his maiden podium in his debut Moto3 season.”

Hakim, who qualified second before being promoted to pole position following David Almansa’s withdrawal due to tonsillitis, held his own in a fiercely contested race before finishing behind Spain’s Brian Uriarte and Alvaro Carpe.

“It wasn’t an easy weekend for me. I crashed twice on Friday but managed to bounce back and qualify second,” said Hakim.

“Everything paid off when I crossed the line in third and stepped onto the podium. I hope this is the beginning of many more good results,” added the Aeon Credit-MT Helmets-MSi rider.