Leading FIM Endurance World Cup riders would relish the prospect of contesting next July’s 45th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race.

The iconic event, held on the famous figure-of-eight Japanese circuit, has been added to the Superstock category schedule for the first time in 2024, although participation is not mandatory in line with the dropped-score system being planned for the new season.

Kevin Calia, part of the Team 33 Louit April Moto squad that won the 2023 FIM Endurance World Cup, said: “It’s really good news to have this possibility and it would be a very good chance for me as Suzuka is a dream race for a Superstock rider like I am. So, for me, it’s a very good and interesting opportunity.”

Chris Leesch, who rode for Chromeburner-RAC41-Honda in 2023, said: “It’s been a bucket-list race for me for a very long time. I’ve tried many ways to race at Suzuka so if it could be as a Superstock round happening that would be great because it’s a dream for every rider to race on that track in front of that crowd. Also, it’s amazing for the Superstock category to get this kind of platform.”

Slider Endurance Superstock rider Rodi Pak added: “I would love to race at Suzuka in Superstock because it’s a great event with lots of spectators and a crazy atmosphere. It could be a great opportunity and a great experience for me. I hope I can race there.”