Sepang:The less-than-ideal track conditions at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) are set to pose a major challenge to riders as they seek to remain competitive throughout the 2026 Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix (GP).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, SIC Racing team manager Zulfahmi Khairuddin highlighted that the lack of tyre grip, caused by damage to the track surface, is an issue affecting not only Moto3 riders but also those competing in the premier MotoGP class.

Several sections of the circuit have become damaged and uneven, necessitating resurfacing works to ensure SIC meets international racing standards. Zulfahmi noted that the track conditions are deteriorating, with grip becoming increasingly poor and many sections of the tarmac surface damaged and peeling off. This has resulted in lap times being over a second slower than the circuit record.

To cope with these conditions, teams are required to make more precise machine adjustments to ensure riders maintain their performance until the race's end. Zulfahmi expressed that this situation poses a challenge to his protege, national Moto3 rider Muhammad Hakim Danish Ramli, who rides for the AEON Credit-MT Helmets-MSI team.

Finding the right bike setup is crucial for riders to remain competitive, especially during the final five laps of the race. Earlier, Hakim Danish secured a place in qualifying two (Q2) after finishing fourth in the afternoon practice session.