KF2, Suzuka: Asia-Pacific title for Arata Saeki

In the Final, Shuehi Hayashi (Birel-Parilla) made a fast start in front of Max Klingby-Silver (Birel-BMB) and Damiano Fioravanti (Tony Kart-Vortex). But on lap 5 the Japanese driver dropped to 3rd and Klingby-Silver charged into a lead which grew lap by lap. He was far in front at half way but by two-thirds race distance, Arata Saeki (FA Kart-Vortex) was closing fast. The gap came down and it was no surprise when he took the lead on lap 20. So the Dane had to be content with 2nd place with Fioravanti taking 3rd place to squeeze Hayashi off the podium.

Saeki was delighted with his win. ‘I am very, very happy to come from 14th on the grid up to the front and passing many good rivals. I felt very confident in the handling of my kart.’

Klingby-Silver was clear in the cause of defeat. ‘We made the wrong tyre choice for the 24 lap race. I couldn’t do anything to defend against the pass by Saeki, but I am still very happy to be on the podium’.

Info CIK / © Photo KSP