In the past, the Suzuka 8 Hour endurance race has attracted some of the biggest names in motorcycle racing – and this year, our very own Leon Haslam will be hoping to fly the flag for Britain as he takes part in one of the world’s most prestigious racing events.
As a rider, Leon is no stranger to Suzuka having raced to victory in 2013 and 2014. Speaking on his official website, Haslam stated that he was “very pleased to have been selected to race in the three-man Kawasaki team” before adding how great it was to be “going back to Suzuka.”
Earlier this year, Leon made the move from WSBK into the BSB Championship, and by riding in this year’s 8 Hour event, fans will be able to catch a glimpse of The Pocket Rocket as he gets to grips with the awesome Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R.
“I’ve been comfortable on the ZX-10R since I started testing for the BSB season” explained Leon on his official website, “and I will have raced on it at six British Superbike rounds by the time Suzuka arrives so I’ll have had plenty of time aboard the machine.”
Whether Suzuka will deliver the third 8 Hour victory Leon craves remains unknown – all we know for sure is that here at Carole Nash, we’re already counting down the days until this year’s event.
Suzuka 8 Hours takes place on Sunday the 31st of July. Ticket details TBA