Jonathan Rea says his third Suzuka 8 Hours victory proved to himself that he was still capable of winning after a difficult period in his career.
Rea returned to the renowned endurance race for the first time since 2019, claiming his third Suzuka 8 Hours victory after teaming up with Takumi Takahashi and Somkiat Chantra.
After two injury-hit seasons aboard uncompetitive Yamaha machinery saw him call time on his WorldSBK career, Rea re-joined Honda as a test and development rider with the opportunity to return to Suzuka.
In a race heavily affected by torrential rain and tough conditions, the Northern Irishman opened up about the mental challenge of conquering the Suzuka 8 Hours for the first time in seven years.
“Suzuka, thanks for this emotion. It’s been 3 years since I tasted victory, after many difficult moments, surgeries, and doubts, yesterday [Sunday] was a personal reminder that I could still twist the throttle,” Rea said on his Instagram.
“The race was one of the toughest mental battles I’ve had and with the rain, you are one mistake from ending your race.
“For 8 hours, the stress when the oil went down, managing the gap to our competitors and judging the changing conditions was immense.
“But, it was all worth it. Thanks so much to Team HRC and all the staff for their incredible work and for believing in me!
“Words will never describe the feelings of winning a team event like Suzuka 8 Hours but those that have experienced it will know.
“Takumi, you were rock solid and your mentality was amazing. Chantra, you did a great job on your first Suzuka experience.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity to feel these emotions again!
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