Syahrin replace Folger at Tech 3 Yamaha for 2018

Hafizh Syahrin will become the first Malaysian to ever start a MotoGP race, as he signs for the Tech 3 Racing Yamaha team as a full-time replacement to Jonas Folger, who is missing the 2018 season through illness.

Syahrin had his best Moto2 season ever in 2017, taking eight top 10 finishes, including two podiums – both of which came in torrential rain conditions at Misano and then at the Twin Ring Motegi venue. Herve Poncheral gave Syahrin the chance to test the Yamaha Tech 3 machine at Buriram during the official test, where Syahrin proved his worth, finishing ahead of ex-Moto2 race winners Karel Abraham and Xavier Simeon.

“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,” began the Malaysian.

“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!”

Syahrin will now join the grid and continue to build confidence at the next test, at Losail in Qatar. He becomes the 19th different nationality to start a MotoGP race since the class was reformed and rebranded in 2002 (a statistic from Martin Raines).