KUALA LUMPUR: Up-and-coming rider Syarifuddin Azman will compete in the Moto3 event at the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang from Oct 21-23 as a wildcard.
Syarifuddin currently competes in the FIM Junior GP for SIC Racing.
Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu confirmed Syarifuddin's wildcard in a press conference at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) today.
The 20-year-old Syarifuddin, currently second overall in the FIM Junior GP, is raring for action in his fifth Moto3 start.
"My dream is to race in Sepang in front of the home fan, and I will fulfil it following the announcement today," said Syarifuddin, fondly known as Damok.
"I am excited and looking forward to the race. I hope to live up to the expectations.
"My previous starts were at the last minute. However, the early ticket for the Malaysian GP will allow me to prepare well for the race.
"After the FIM Junior GP in Italy next month, I will focus on preparing for the Malaysian GP."
Petronas is the title sponsor of the Malaysian GP, which is making a return after a two-year hiatus due to Covid-19.
SIC chief executive Azhan Shafriman Hanif believes ticket sales will pick up following Syarifuddin's wildcard announcement.
"Syarifuddin will be a crowd puller as fans want to see a Malaysian in the home GP," said Shafriman.
"I hope he can finish in top 10 in the race," said Azhan.
