Hakim Danish Climbs to Sixth in Moto3 World Championship After Impressive Rookie Campaign
PETALING JAYA: Malaysian rider Hakim Danish Ramli continues to strengthen his reputation on the international stage after climbing to sixth place in the Moto3 World Championship standings following the opening 10 rounds of the 2026 season.
The 18-year-old AEON Credit-MT Helmets-MSi rider has accumulated 82 championship points, placing him firmly among the leading contenders in his debut campaign at motorcycle racing’s highest level of junior competition. With 12 rounds still remaining, Hakim has the opportunity to further improve his championship position if he maintains his current level of consistency.
His latest points haul came at the Dutch Grand Prix at the TT Circuit Assen, where he produced another determined performance to finish seventh despite starting from 16th on the grid. The result allowed him to consolidate his position in the championship while continuing an encouraging rookie season that has already featured two podium finishes.
Reflecting on the race, Hakim described Assen as one of the more demanding circuits on the calendar, saying he had to push throughout the race to remain in contention with the leading group.
After making a strong start, he steadily worked his way through the field and attempted to close the gap on front runners Maximo Quiles and David Almansa. However, he acknowledged that both riders maintained a faster pace, making it difficult to challenge for higher positions.
Hakim also revealed that rear tyre wear became a significant factor during the closing stages of the race. Although he fought to defend his position and remain in the battle for a podium finish, the tyre performance limited his ability to launch further attacks over the final laps.
Despite narrowly missing out on another podium, the Malaysian youngster viewed the race as another valuable learning experience. He said every round provides important lessons that will help him continue developing as he prepares for the remainder of the championship.
Looking ahead, Hakim said he remains pleased with the progress achieved during his first Moto3 season and is determined to continue working hard to represent Malaysia with distinction on the world stage.
SIC Racing Team manager Zulfahmi Khairuddin also praised the teenager’s performance, describing the Assen race as another encouraging display of maturity and determination.
According to Zulfahmi, recovering from 16th on the starting grid to finish among the leading riders was a significant achievement, particularly on a technical circuit such as Assen where overtaking opportunities are limited.
He added that the team’s technical staff were satisfied with Hakim’s continued development and acknowledged that his rise to sixth place in the championship exceeded initial expectations for a rookie rider.
Attention will now turn to the German Grand Prix at Sachsenring from 10 to 12 July, where Hakim will aim to continue his momentum and strengthen his position in the Moto3 standings. With nearly half of the season still to run, Malaysia’s rising motorcycle racing talent remains well placed to challenge for further top finishes as his debut campaign continues to gather momentum.
