Honda has revealed that six-time WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea and MotoGP race winner Johann Zarco will team up at the Suzuka 8 Hours.
“I will compete in the Suzuka 8 Hours again this year as a member of Honda HRC,” stated Takahashi in Honda’s press release.
“For me, it is also an opportunity to challenge for a fifth consecutive victory, and it is a great honor as a rider to stand on such a stage.
“This year, I will compete alongside Zarco, my winning partner from last year, and Rea, a WSBK champion rider, in a strong three-rider lineup.
“I will do my best to achieve a fifth consecutive victory, and I hope everyone will continue to give Honda HRC their passionate support.”
Together with Takahashi, the Japanese marque will aim to win for a fifth successive year, with Zarco aiming for a third win.
“I am truly happy to return to the Suzuka 8 Hours again this year as a member of Honda HRC,” shared Zarco.
“Winning last year’s eight-hour race was a special honour for me, and I will give everything I have again this year to aim for the top step of the podium.
“In addition to Takumi, Rea, a highly experienced and reliable rider, will join us as a new team-mate this year.
“I am confident that we can become an even stronger team. I look forward to seeing everyone at Suzuka.”
Riding a factory-spec Fireblade, the trio will target victory, with Rea returning to the fold after winning the same event with Honda in 2012, before triumphing with Kawasaki in 2019.
“I am also proud to compete as part of a team that has achieved the outstanding feat of four consecutive victories,” added Rea.
“Although it has been some time since I last competed in an eight-hour race, there is no doubt about the potential of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP at Suzuka Circuit.
“Together with Takumi and Zarco, I will give everything to take victory.”
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