After Jonathan Rea gained the Suzuka 8 Hours, he thanked Honda for “reminding me that I am nonetheless quick.”
Rea, a six-time World SBK Champion, moved to the Iwata Manufacturing unit after 9 seasons with Kawasaki and was winless previously two years of his full-time racing profession with Yamaha.
The chance to compete within the Suzuka 8 Hours for the primary time since 2019, after shifting to Honda as a take a look at rider in 2026, was Rea’s third probability to win the occasion. He and Honda delivered that efficiency, which Ray later mentioned reminded him of his personal competitiveness.
Jonathan Rea, 2026 Suzuka 8 Hours. Credit score: Honda Racing Company.
Jonathan Rea mentioned after the race, “I am actually grateful to HRC and Honda for giving me this chance.”
“The final three or 4 seasons have been robust mentally, however this bike has been unbelievable.
“I nearly forgot what it felt prefer to go somebody on a straight!
“Thanks for reminding me that I am nonetheless quick.
“Pole place, quickest lap and race win. I could not ask for something extra. I am so grateful.”
This victory was Rei’s first at Suzuka, nevertheless it was Takumi Takahashi’s eighth and Honda’s thirty second. The 2 shared a motorbike within the race, and though Somkiat Chantra missed a stint, the Japanese appreciated Rhea’s efforts.
Jonathan Rea and Takumi Takahashi, 2026 Suzuka 8 Hours Wednesday take a look at, pit field. Credit score: Honda…
“To begin with, we ran in utterly moist situations, however I am actually glad that we had been in a position to end the race safely,” Takahashi mentioned.
“Sadly, Chantra wasn’t in a position to journey, however Johnny (Jonathan Rea) and I accomplished the race collectively and Chantra supported us all through. I’m very proud of how the whole lot went.”
“Johnny did an ideal job in the present day. He’s a a number of world champion and his tempo was extremely quick and really constant.
“The entire group was nice too. Each tire change, each pit cease, each choice was executed completely and gave us an ideal bike. This victory belongs to everybody.”
