PETALING JAYA: Young rider Qabil Irfan ended a superb season in the ESBK Talent by stepping on the podium at the final round in Jerez.

The 13-year-old was already crowned overall champion at the previous round in Estoril in September.

He finished Race 1 in third place to secure another podium, and finished fourth in Race 2 to close a stellar campaign.

His season haul was six wins, two second place finishes and three third places.

“Race 2 was tough from start to finish,” said Qabil.

“I did not have the luck for the podium,” he added, saying that he really enjoyed it because all the riders were aggressive and fast.

He thanked sponsors and supporters for backing him throughout the season.

Sepang International Circuit Racing team manager Zulfahmi Khairuddin praised Qabil’s year.

He said Qabil became the first Malaysian to win the championship.

“The ESBK Talent season with Qabil has concluded, and it has been very successful,” said Zulfahmi.

“We won the championship, and congratulations to Qabil and his family,” he added.