2026 Suzuka 8 Hours: Schedule, favourites and all the key information

This weekend’s programme features the Suzuka 8 Hours, one of the world’s most prestigious motorbike races. The third round of the Endurance World Championship (EWC) has enjoyed cult status for decades and traditionally attracts numerous factory teams as well as stars from MotoGP and the Superbike World Championship to Japan. The 47th edition of this classic event will take place on Sunday 5 July.

The provisional entry list features 50 teams. Once again, the spotlight is on the Honda HRC works team, which is aiming for its fifth consecutive Suzuka victory on its home circuit. The line-up is led by Takumi Takahashi. With his numerous victories, the Japanese rider is the most successful rider in the history of the Suzuka 8 Hours. He is supported by record-breaking Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea, who is among the top favourites following his return to the Honda works team.

However, Honda has had to cope with a last-minute rider change. MotoGP rider Johann Zarco is out after sustaining several injuries at the Barcelona Grand Prix. His place will be taken by Thai rider Somkiat Chantra, who has recently gained his first experience on the Suzuka-spec Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.

Honda, Yamaha and BMW strong at the start of testing

The first official test day already showed that Honda is determined to live up to its role as favourite. The factory team finished in the top three in all five sessions and even set the fastest time in the first two practice sessions. Whilst BMW and Yamaha also won individual sessions, Honda proved to be the most consistent top team over the course of the day.

Die Honda mit der Nummer 30 geht als Favorit ins Traditionsrennen

Foto: HRC

Alongside Honda, Yamaha is also fielding a pure works team. The number 21 Yamaha works bike boasts a top-class line-up featuring MotoGP rider Jack Miller, World Superbike regular Andrea Locatelli and Suzuka legend Katsuyuki Nakasuga. For the Japanese rider, this will be his final appearance at his home race, which lends the event added emotional significance. Yamaha is keen to put last year’s defeat behind them and challenge Honda on its home track.

YART, BMW and SERT have their sights set on the World Championship title

Whilst Honda and Yamaha battle for the prestigious overall victory, the permanent EWC teams also have their sights set on the World Championship. Although the BMW works team recently won the Spa 8 Hours, YART continues to lead the overall standings. Behind them are Yoshimura SERT Motul and BMW, separated by just one point. Kawasaki Webike Trickstar is also still in the title race.

Michael van der Mark und seine Endurance-Kollegen Odendaal und Reiterberger

Foto: BMW

Alongside the works teams, there are numerous well-known names on the starting grid. Among others, Jonas Folger and Jeremy Guarnoni are competing for S-Pulse Suzuki and are hoping to spring a surprise. For European fans, the time difference means another early start. Japan is seven hours ahead of Central European Summer Time (CEST). An overview of the key dates: