AFTER almost a year away from the track, former world championship rider Khairul Idham Pawi announced his return to racing yesterday.
Khairul confirmed that he will be riding for Onexox TKKR Racing Team in the 600cc class at the opening round of the Malaysia Superbike Championships (MSBK) at Sepang Circuit this weekend.
The Perak-born, who had struggled with injuries and form during his last two years in Moto2 (2019) and Moto3 (2020), feels it is time for him to make a comeback to the sport.
Khairul, whose contract with Petronas Sprinta Racing was not renewed last season, initially indicated that he was retiring in December last year but clarified later that he just wanted time away from the sport.
"I just wanted time off to be with my family following tough seasons on the track," said Khairul yesterday.
"There were teams who had approached me when I was away from the track, but I told them I was not ready to return to racing yet.
"But now I finally feel that I am ready. I miss racing and the atmosphere in the paddock.
"I am looking forward to racing in MSBK. However, I do not have targets for this weekend as I have not ridden a bike since I left the (Moto3) World Championships last year."
Khairul said he does not know if he will compete in just one race in the MSBK or complete a full season.
However, he is prepared to listen to offers for next season.
"I told the team (TKKR) that I just want to enjoy racing this weekend and get my feel back on the bike. If given the opportunity to race the entire season, then I will continue," said Khairul.
The 23-year-old said he had been helping his father run his oil palm business in Perak during his time away from racing. He also tied the knot with sweetheart Nur Alisha Tajul in May.
Khairul, who won two Moto3 races in 2016, is the only Malaysian rider to have won a race in the world championships.
