IDEMITSU Honda Racing India, the lone Indian team competing in the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC), made a huge impression on foreign soil and had a successful season in 2022.
Raiders
Expert rider Rajeev Sethu from India placed in the top 10 in the final race of ARRC’s Asia Production 250cc (AP250cc) class, showing consistency in performance and winning the title for the nation. Rajeev moved up a position on the first lap after starting the race in 18th position on the grid. He took advantage of rainy racing and minor incidents to move up in the standings, reaching 10th on lap 8. From this point, he continued to push forward and earned himself an additional 6 points by crossing the finish line in 10th place.
Senthil Kumar, who started the day in seventh place, struggled today until a crucial comeback on lap two. Senthal, however, proved his will and refocused with more power and a competitive attitude. Senthil, who faced tough competition from international riders, finished 14th and got 2 points in today’s race.
Rajeev Sethu finished the 2022 tournament with 37 points, making it into the top 15, while Senthal did so with 13 points after the final round. Honda Racing India finished the 2022 season in the top 10 overall.
Official statement
Commenting on the performance of the Indian riders, Mr. Atsushi Ogata – Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India said, “Racing is in Honda’s DNA. For us, motorsport is just one event. No, it is a culture that helps us raise our standards and fulfill the overall vision of the brand. Today, I am very happy to experience the riding performance of our Indian riders, especially the youth. COVID After a gap of two years due to -19, our riders were confident and motivated to face all the challenges and put up an exemplary performance throughout the season.
The enthusiasm of our riders and the progress of the team on the international platform shows that we are on the right track in promoting motorsport in India and helping develop future international champions from India. I thank all the team members for their outstanding contribution and wish them all the best for the next season.”