The annual Suzuka 8 Hour race holds a special place on the FIM Endurance World Championship calendar.
Hoards of Japanese race fans descend upon the famous circuit to watch the amazing spectacle unfold, as a number of dedicated local and factory teams line up to take on the regular competitors.
For Bridgestone, their home race this year is doubly important.
The world’s largest tyre maker is always well represented at the 8 Tai, and following Yamaha’s win at the event last year, it marked a 12th consecutive victory at the Suzuka 8 Hour for Bridgestone.
Heading into the final round, the Bridgestone supported FCC TSR Honda squad are also leading the championship after a series of impressive results including victories at Le mans and Oschersleben earlier this season.
They hold a 10-point advantage over second placed GMT94 Yamaha in the series, and although both are likely to struggle to make the podium due to the strength of the wildcards in Japan, a solid performance will still be key to secure a championship victory.
In an attempt to defend their 2017 title, the Yamaha factory squad have decided to stick with their winning line-up of Alex lowes, Michael van der Mark and Katsuyuki Nakasuga.
Looking to wrestle back the title, MuSASHi RT HARC-PRO Honda have also announced a strong trio of riders; Randy de Puniet, Ryo Mizuno and Dominique Aegerter.
The famous 8 Tai takes place over the final weekend of July.
Find out more about Bridgestone’s race range here.
