Johann Zarco and Honda HRC have already set their own rules at Suzuka Circuit

Johann Zarco and the Honda HRC team started the Suzuka 8 Hours with a strong performance and set the fastest result of the day’s testing.

In Suzuka, the scorching sun and humidity were scorching, and Honda HRC cars established their benchmark position before the start of the 46th Suzuka 8 Hours. Takumi Takahashi, Xavi Verge and John Zarco ran a best time of 2:05.645 in the fourth practice session of the day, giving the factory Honda team a psychological advantage. Honda is expected to win the tournament for the fourth time in a row.

Team Yamaha returned to Suzuka this year for the first time since 2019 with a strong lineup including Andrea Locatelli (World Superbike Championship) and Jack Miller, finishing second in free practice ahead of the YART-Yamaha motorcycles that are currently leading the endurance championship after two rounds.

From the first round, the YART Yamaha No. 7 class dominated the race, setting the fastest lap of 2’06.630.30, slightly ahead of the Honda HRC No. 2 class. In the second round, the Yoshimura SERT Motul team led with a time of 06.559 minutes XNUMX seconds XNUMX. It is followed by the Honda HRC team and the ATJ with Docomo Business team.

After round of practice, the No. 30 team gradually picked up speed, and despite being interrupted by several red flag attacks, they finally set the fastest lap. In the fourth round of practice, Zarko and his teammates made a breakthrough. In the sweltering heat, the trio set a record for the day, solidifying their position as the favourites in pole position. However, the pole position battle for this race will not be revealed until a few days later.