While the MotoGP series takes a summer hiatus, motorcycle racing enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate the Suzuka 8 Hours taking place this weekend.
Traditionally staged in late July or August, the Suzuka 8 Hours showcases top Japanese riders, teams, and manufacturers, while also incorporating an international aspect.
Suzuka 8 Hours Format
The Suzuka 8 Hours is part of the FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC) and its event weekend has a distinct structure compared to the MotoGP and World Superbike Championship.
The weekend’s actions begin on Friday with a two-hour practice session running from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM local time, not including any private tests.
Qualifying occurs over two days and is organized into three segments. Each rider from a team is designated a color: blue, yellow, or red. All three riders participate in the initial qualifying in their respective sessions and again for a second qualifying later in the day.
The average time of the two fastest riders from each team determines which 10 motorcycles advance to the Top 10 Trial held on Saturday. Unique to the Suzuka round of the EWC, this trial resembles a superpole shootout, with teams nominating two riders to clock the best time.
During the Top 10 Trial, the first rider from each team runs in reverse order based on Friday’s qualifying results, followed by the second rider until all times are set. However, only the fastest single lap from either rider influences the final grid position, allowing for some leeway if one rider has a slower time.
The race itself is on Sunday, beginning at 11:30 AM local time and finishing under the lights at 7:30 PM. An interesting tradition is upheld where riders line up near the pit wall before sprinting to their bikes to start the race.
Schedule (UK Time)
Friday, 1 August
00h30-02h30: Free Practice
04h00-04h20: First Qualifying (Blue Riders)
04h35-04h55: First Qualifying (Yellow Riders)
05h10-05h30: First Qualifying (Red Riders)
07h30-07h50: Second Qualifying (Blue Riders)
08h05-08h25: Second Qualifying (Yellow Riders)
08h40-09h00: Second Qualifying (Red Riders)
10h30-11h50: Night Free Practice
Saturday, 2 August
06h15-07h00: Free Practice
07h30-09h00: Top 10 Trial
Sunday, 3 August
00h30-01h15: Warm-up
03h30: Start of the 46th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race
11h30: Finish of the 46th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race
Riders, Teams, and Manufacturers
Established in 1978, the Suzuka 8 Hours is a source of pride for Japanese manufacturers who invest heavily in preparation and testing for this event. Historically, MotoGP riders were often required to compete, with legends like Valentino Rossi among past participants. However, the busy MotoGP schedule and injury risks have meant fewer top riders travel to Japan for this endurance race.
This year’s lineup includes several well-known international riders, such as French GP winner and defending Suzuka champion Johann Zarco returning with Honda, along with Jack Miller representing Yamaha. In total, 55 teams will compete, featuring 15 full-season EWC competitors. Yamaha is making a comeback as a factory entrant alongside official entries from Honda, BMW, and Suzuki, while Kawasaki and Ducati are also involved.
In addition to Miller and Zarco, numerous other foreign riders familiar to MotoGP and WSBK fans will participate, including Leon Haslam, Karel Hanika, Marvel Fritz, Andrea Locatelli, and Jonas Folger.
Recent Winners of the Suzuka 8 Hours
As the owner of the Suzuka circuit, Honda is the most successful manufacturer at the event, claiming their 30th overall victory last year with Zarco, Takumi Takahashi, and Teppei Nagoe, marking a third consecutive win for Team HRC.
Notable international riders who have won in the 21st century include Jonathan Rea, Toprak Razgatlioglu, and Colin Edwards, alongside legends like Wayne Rainey, Eddie Lawson, and Mick Doohan.
