Team HRC with Japan Post qualified third for the Suzuka 8 Hours after the Top 10 Trial
Following yesterday’s combined qualifying sessions, five Honda-powered teams secured spots in the Top 10 Trial, which determine the starting grid for Sunday’s 45th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race.
Before the Top 10 Trial, the free practice session was held on Saturday 20th from 12:15pm 3pm, where Team HRC with Japan Post (Takumi Takahashi, Teppei Nagoe and Johann Zarco) clocked the third fastest time at 2’07.181. Only Takahashi and Zarco took part in the free practice session in preparation for the Top 10 Trial as they were the two selected riders. Takahashi and Zarco finished with best times of 2’07.753 and 2’07.348 respectively.
At the Top 10 Trial, Team HRC with Japan Post’s Takumi Takahashi, who holds the all-Japan Suzuka track record of 2:03.592, thrilled all the crowd. Takahashi set an impressive time of 2:05.621, but his teammate, MotoGP rider Johann Zarco, clocked an even faster time of 2:05.531, ultimately securing third place on the starting grid for tomorrow.
Team HRC with Japan Post, very satisfied with its results so far, is ready to chase his third consecutive victory in Japan’s round.
Takumi Takahashi 30
"I don't particularly enjoy top ten trials where you have to go all out in just one lap, but I managed to achieve a time in the 5-second range, which is a significant benchmark for Zarco, who will be racing behind me. With this time, I believe Zarco was able to push to his limit. We’ve made good progress so far, and I'm excited for the race. I aim to win my 30th Honda race and make all our supporters proud. Japan Post's employees are here to cheer me on, so I'll aim for victory to show my appreciation for their support."
Teppei Nagoe 30
"I wanted to ride in the Top 10 Trial, but the team decided otherwise. Despite that, I'll persevere and aim to secure a win. I’m determined to give my best for the team in the final."
Johann Zarco 30
‘’I've never done a Top 10 Trial before, but it was a very new experience for me. I did my best, although I didn't get to the 4-second mark, but the three of us are consistent and we will aim for the win in the race. If I can win, it will be a great experience.’
Location Information
SUZUKA 8HOURS ESSENTIAL* Name: SUZUKA CIRCUIT Location: 7992 Ino-Cho, Suzuka-shi, Mie-ken 510-0295, Japan Track length: 5.821 kilometres Race distance: 8 hours Official website Suzuka Circuit Suzuka Circuit Operated by Honda-owned Mobilityland, Suzuka features a unique figure-of-eight layout and presents a considerable challenge for riders thanks to its wide variety of corners.… read more.
7992 Inoucho, Suzuka, Mie, Japan - View in Google Maps
Records
| POLE POSITION RECORD | 2'04.934s Team HRC - Tetsuta Nagashima - Honda CBR1000RR-R SP (2022) |
| RACE RECORD | 2'06.805s Kawasaki Racing Team - Jonathan Rea - Kawasaki ZX10RR (2019) |
