Suzuka 8 Hours: Honda HRC Ends Final Test on Top

Q: The race week has finally started, with some last-minute rider changes. How do you feel about that?
A: Well, I’ve already won this race, and Xavi has won here too. Everyone in our current lineup has past success, so I don’t see any major cause for concern.

Q: How did today’s final test sessions go?
A: With Xavi joining us at short notice, our plan was to give him as much track time as possible. We covered the essential checks, and in each session I managed to get at least a few laps in, except for one session. It was mainly about ensuring Xavi could familiarize himself with the bike.

Q: How would you assess the bike’s performance?
A: The lap times are there, so overall things look good. Of course, I can’t say we’re fully satisfied yet — the feeling with the bike in these hot conditions is never easy. Endurance racing can be very tough if the bike isn’t easy to ride, but we’re in a position to be competitive. We’ll keep pushing right up until the start.

Q: You mentioned wanting a bit more margin — why is that important?
A: In an eight-hour race, especially when the gaps are just a few seconds after six or seven hours, it becomes mentally exhausting. To reduce risk, we need a little more comfort and consistency, so that’s what we’re aiming for.

Q: How do you feel about being back racing at the Suzuka 8 Hours?
A: I’m happy to be back at the Suzuka 8 Hours. Last year there was a little more pressure because I wanted to win, and of course I still want the victory now. But I feel I have more control of the bike and know the track better. This year the competition will be very strong, with several top contenders. So it feels a bit more special, but I don’t feel too much pressure to repeat. I know the speed is there — the key will be how the race unfolds, with the safety car and the overall strategy, which I think will be very important. I hope we manage it well on Sunday.

Q: How do you feel about today’s test?
A: Today was good to see all the riders and to train in keeping a strong pace while overtaking, because that’s one of the most important things for Sunday’s race. That was my focus today. There were many red flags, so it wasn’t possible to do too many laps in a row, but just getting back on track was perfect. It was extremely hot, and the bike’s behavior changes a bit in such high temperatures.

Q: How did it go with Xavi stepping in at the last moment?
A: I expected Xavi would struggle more with the heat, but he’s in very good physical condition and he said he adapted quite well to the bike and the track. Suzuka is always a very technical circuit, and you need laps to get fully used to it, but he already has a good average pace. Overall, he’s in good condition to handle the heat of the week.

Q: Are you satisfied with the testing and the level reached?
A: Yes. We had two tests here, and I did both with Takumi. My speed improved, and today I confirmed that my pace was good. Of course, I always want to do better, but we’re trying to have everything well prepared as a team. Our strong point will be consistency, which is one of the main things for us. For the time attack on Saturday, maybe we won’t be able to take pole position because other bikes are very strong, but the important thing is the race.

Q: How do you feel about being here with the Honda HRC team?
A: Of course, it’s sad for Iker, and I wish him all the very best and a speedy recovery. On my side, I’m really happy to join the Honda HRC team and to help Honda. I was already here in 2023 and enjoyed it a lot. Last year it clashed with our calendar, but this year it didn’t, and I really hoped I could race here again. Initially, the plan wasn’t for me to take part, but then, as you know, Iker got injured and the opportunity came up. I immediately said yes. I came straight from Hungary, which made things a bit difficult since I couldn’t join the previous test, and today there were many red flags. Still, I managed to complete some laps, and right away the feeling and the pace were quite good, so I’m happy.

Q: Are you fully fit after the injury to your left foot?
A: Yes. The bone is completely healed. The skin is still a little bit sensitive because in that area it’s very thin, so it takes time, but I can ride perfectly without pain. So yes, I’m fully fit.

Q: It’s been a while since you last rode here at Suzuka. How does it feel? Have things changed since last time?
A: Yes, many things have changed. The bike has improved, and the first sector has completely new tarmac. The bike feels faster, and lap times are getting quicker. As I said, from the start the feeling was good. I’m trying to adapt to the bike as quickly as possible, since it’s Takumi’s setup with Bridgestone tyres, which is quite different for me. But I feel good, and I think tomorrow’s free day will help us understand the direction we need to follow so I can be faster on Friday.

Q: You didn’t take part in any previous test sessions this year. Do you still feel comfortable on the bike?
A: Of course, I miss track time and laps, but I’m doing my best to adapt quickly. The team is helping me a lot, and I’ve been trying to progress throughout the day. I think this first day has gone well — we’ve achieved our main goals — and there’s still room to improve. Ideally, I would have tested last month, but it wasn’t possible. Anyway, with the team’s support, I feel we’re doing a good job.

Q: How is it sharing the garage with Johann Zarco?
A: Both Johann and Takumi are incredibly fast, and for me it’s a pleasure to team up with them. Johann won here last year, and Takumi has won many times. The best I can do is learn from them. Suzuka is a track with tricky things that require experience and plenty of laps to fully understand. I’m trying to learn from their riding styles and be as fast as possible.