Image: Supplied.

Malaysian Hafizh Syahrin took his first steps as a MotoGP rider at Chang International Circuit on Friday, on debut with Monster Yamaha Tech3.

Expected to be the rider to replace German Jonas Folger in the satellite team in 2018, Syahrin wound up 24th on the time-sheets with a 1m33.165s in 70 laps.

“Today was my first day in MotoGP and we did an amazing job together with the team,” Syahrin said. “I feel really good with the bike, with my guys, who they work. I have an absolutely positive first impression. Each time we went out on track, we were able to improve the lap-time, which is very important to me.

“I try to keep going like this, gaining more confidence with the bike. Today we did many laps and some start practices. Thereby, it was interesting to find out how the launch control and the traction control works, but for sure I still need more confidence with it.”

Syahrin’s lap-time was 1.860s from standout teammate Johann Zarco in his first premier class experience, which – like most on-track during Friday’s sessions – was also his first time taking to the Buriram venue.