The picturesque Sokol International Racetrack near Almaty, Kazakhstan, came alive on May 31 and June 1, 2025, as it hosted the thrilling Round 1 of the Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship (AAGC) 2025. Among the 27 competitors from across Asia, Team Bangladesh marked a bold presence, showcasing raw potential, dedication, and the spirit of grassroots motorsport.
Led by Team Manager Asif Hossain, the national contingent was comprised of Rasel Rahman, Kashfia Motaleb, and Saier Bin Mahboob—three drivers selected for their proven skills and passion for the sport.
The newest addition to the team, Saier Bin Mahboob, earned his spot on the national squad after a standout victory at the National Auto Slalom Championship 2025 – Sylhet Round, organized by the Automobile Association of Bangladesh (AAB). A rising star with immense promise, Saier entered the international competition as the team’s rookie, eager to prove himself on foreign soil.
Test Run Highlights
In the preliminary test runs, Team Bangladesh clocked competitive times among a tight field of 27 drivers:
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Rasel Rahman – 13th fastest
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Kashfia Motaleb – 16th fastest
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Saier Bin Mahboob – 19th fastest
These consistent performances from the team and a solid foundation heading into the main categories.
Final Results by Category
Team Bangladesh participated in four categories of the competition: Female Solo, Male Solo, Male Double, and Mixed Double. Here’s how they placed:
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Female Solo:
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Driver: Kashfia Motaleb
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Result: 8th place out of 9 competitors
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Male Solo:
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Driver: Saier Bin Mahboob
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Result: 14th place out of 17 competitors
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Driver: Rasel Rahman
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Result: 15th place out of 17 competitors
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Male Double:
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Drivers: Saier Bin Mahboob & Rasel Rahman
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Result: 5th place out of 8 teams
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Mixed Double:
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Drivers: Kashfia Motaleb & Rasel Rahman
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Result: 6th place out of 9 teams
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Competing on an International Stage
Team Bangladesh stood shoulder to shoulder with competitors from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, India, Taiwan, Singapore, and Hong Kong—nations with far more established motorsport infrastructure and racing history. This exposure not only tested the skills of our drivers but also gave them invaluable experience on a global platform.
A Milestone for Bangladesh Motorsport
While Team Bangladesh didn’t walk away with podium finishes this time, the team delivered commendable performances against a field packed with seasoned international racers. For a country with no permanent racing infrastructure, this outing proved once again how far passion, discipline, and grassroots motorsport development can take a nation.
Special credit goes to the Automobile Association of Bangladesh (AAB) for their relentless efforts in organizing national competitions and scouting talent. Programs like the National Auto Slalom Championship are vital breeding grounds for racers like Saier—drivers who are now making their mark across Asia.
With experience, exposure, and continuous development, Team Bangladesh is shaping up to be a true contender in the region’s motorsport scene.
Stay tuned to Auto Rebellion for more updates on Bangladesh’s motorsport journey and behind-the-scenes stories from the paddock.
Founder of Auto Rebellion | Guest writer for zerotohundred.com