[Race Report] Yoshimura SERT Motul Finishes 6th in Chaotic Suzuka 8 Hours, Keeping Title Hopes Alive!

At the 47th Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Road Race held on July 5, 2026, Yoshimura SERT Motul finished in 6th place. Despite challenging conditions including adverse weather, safety car interventions, and penalties, the team secured valuable points and will head into the final round at Bol d'Or in provisional 3rd place in the standings.

Race Day Marred by Bad Weather and Safety Cars

This year's Suzuka 8 Hours proved to be an exceptionally tough race for all 50 teams, with unpredictable weather and numerous incidents. Starting from 8th on the grid, Gregg Black got off to a strong start, taking the holeshot in wet conditions and running with the leading group in the early stages.

However, multiple crashes in the mid-race led to frequent safety car deployments, limiting opportunities to close the gap to the frontrunners. Adding to the team's challenges, a 10-second stop-and-go penalty for a pit lane infringement during refueling further complicated their race.

The race saw heavy rain return towards the end, with further safety car periods adding to the drama. The team persevered until the checkered flag, completing 186 laps and finishing in 6th place.

Aiming for the Title in the Final Round at Bol d'Or

With this result, Yoshimura SERT Motul has accumulated 84 championship points, placing them in provisional 3rd position heading into the final round. Team Director Yohei Kato expressed his disappointment, having aimed for the podium based on the team's performance during pre-season testing. However, he emphasized the team's determination to analyze their experience and return stronger for the final race.

Team Manager Damien Saulnier also lamented the unfortunate timing of the safety cars but praised the mechanics' dedicated repair work and the riders' tenacious efforts. The title battle is still alive, and the team is committed to preparing thoroughly as a united force.

The 89th Bol d'Or 24-hour Endurance Road Race, the final round of the 2026 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC), will be held from September 17th to 20th at the Circuit Paul Ricard in France.

Yoshimura Japan Official Website: https://www.yoshimura-jp.com/

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