2019 Shell MotoGP Archives

Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup Rider Afridza Munandar Passes Away

Afridza Munandar, an Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup (IATC) rider passed away moments ago.
He sustained mortal injuries in a crash at Turn 10 on Lap 1 at the Sepang International Circuit.
Munandar was set to challenge for the IATC title this weekend.

We are saddened to learn and share that Afridza Munandar, an Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup (IATC) rider passed away moments ago.

20-year-old Munandar was involved in accident at Turn 10 on Lap 1 of the race. The race was immediately red-flagged. Spectators saw the medical emergency helicopter land near the corner thereafter. The helicopter flew the stricken rider to the Kuala Lumpur Hospital.

Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries later despite the valiant efforts of the medical staff at the circuit and in the hospital to save his life.

Munandar was one of the hottest talents in the championship this year and was set to duel for the title this weekend at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix, held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). He has won two races, finished second twice and third also twice this season.

The FIM, FIM Asia, Dorna Sports and all involved in the IATC extended their condolences to Munandar’s family, friends and loved ones.

BikesRepublic.com calls for a minute of silence for the fallen rider and his grieving loved one.

Thieves Stole from Angel Nieto Team Pits

Thieves stole items from Angel Nieto team’s pits.
The items included computer, parts and tools for Moto3.
Losses are estimated between € 40,000 to € 50,000.

As the excitement builds up to the 2019 Shell Malaysia MotoGP, we received alarming and sad news that thieves had broken into the pits belonging to Angel Nieto team and stole valuable items.

The pits of these teams are not allocated in the two paddock areas due to lack of space. As such, they are located in tents that attached to parking area PA1.

Team Manager Gino Borsoi described the items missing as Moto3 shock absorbers, calipers, brake discs, computers, tools, tyre heaters (tyre warmers), fork springs. He called the heist a “break-in job.” They have since spoken IRTA (International Road-Racing Teams Association) and are awaiting Sepang International Circuit’s response.

Borsoi also stated that the thieves were targeting Moto3 components as the Moto2 parts were left almost untouched. “The opened the spare parts drawers but didn’t take Moto2 items except for specific things. They were tools for dismantling wheels and disc screws of street motorcycle brakes. And tyre warmers.”

Thankfully, they found support from SKY VR46 team — Valentino Rossi’s team but led by Angel Nieto’s son Pablo Nieto. “We have extra two complete WP shock absorbers. How can I not help them if the team bears my father’s name?” The shocks are valued at nearly € 3,000 (RM 13,951) each.

It wasn’t the first time such theft occurred. Three computers were stolen three years ago. The loss this time was estimated between € 40,000 to € 50,000 for parts, tools and computers.

The team managed to assemble the bikes and completed their runs on the track. The team will have a problem in more serious crashes.

Souce: lalasport.com

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