Like many Japanese riders, Masao Azuma started his racing career in the national minibikes series. Twice 125cc Champion of Japan, in 1993 and, this quiet but friendly rider made his Grand Prix debut as a wildcard at Suzuka in 1996 and finished 6th. Fifteenth in his first Grand Prix season in 1997, Azuma has took his first victory in Australia in '98 and has been considered a serious title contender ever since. In '99 he finished third in the 125cc World Championship behind Alzamora and Melandri but has been unable to improve his final position over the last two seasons despite winning two races in 2001.