Honda Asia Dream Racing with Astemo Battles to P9 Finish at the Suzuka 8 Hours

Suzuka Circuit, Japan | July 5, 2026 - Honda Asia Dream Racing with Astemo delivered a determined and disciplined performance at the 2026 FIM Endurance World Championship's iconic Suzuka 8 Hours, overcoming one of endurance racing's toughest challenges to secure a commendable ninth-place finish at the legendary Suzuka Circuit.

Represented by an all-Asian rider lineup of Nakarin Atiratphuvapat (Thailand), Khairul Pawi (Malaysia), and Adenanta Putra (Indonesia), the team showcased consistency, teamwork, and endurance throughout the event, completing 185 laps in a total race time of 7:56:07.708.

Building Momentum Throughout the Weekend

The race weekend began with several official test sessions as the team worked to fine-tune the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP for the demanding 5.821-kilometer Suzuka Circuit.

Honda Asia Dream Racing with Astemo steadily improved during testing, recording their best lap of 2:07.285, providing a solid foundation heading into the competitive sessions.

That momentum continued into Free Practice, where the team initially finished 26th in the opening session with their best lap of 2:08.229 before making significant progress in Free Practice 2. A strong improvement saw the trio climb to eighth fastest, posting a 2:07.672 to demonstrate their growing confidence and pace.

Strong Qualifying Earns Top-20 Grid Position

Qualifying proved equally encouraging as the team combined the efforts of all three riders to secure 20th overall on the starting grid. Their best qualifying lap of 2:06.709 highlighted the team's continued progress and earned a place among the competitive field for the start of the endurance classic.

Fighting Forward in the Suzuka 8 Hours

As the race got underway, Honda Asia Dream Racing with Astemo focused on executing a clean and consistent strategy across nearly eight hours of non-stop competition.

The demanding nature of the Suzuka 8 Hours tested every aspect of the team's performance—from rider endurance and tire management to pit stop execution and race strategy. Nakarin Atiratphuvapat, Khairul Pawi, and Adenanta Putra each completed crucial stints, maintaining a steady rhythm while avoiding costly mistakes around one of the world's most technically challenging circuits.

Their disciplined approach paid off as the team steadily climbed the order throughout the race. Completing 185 laps with their fastest race lap of 2:18.409, Honda Asia Dream Racing with Astemo crossed the finish line in ninth place, securing a valuable top-10 result against a highly competitive international field.

A Promising Result for Honda Asia

The ninth-place finish reflects the team's preparation, resilience, and cooperation throughout one of motorcycle racing's most prestigious endurance events. With riders representing Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, Honda Asia Dream Racing with Astemo once again demonstrated the strength and potential of Asian talent on the world endurance stage.

The result also provides valuable momentum as the team continues its campaign in the 2026 FIM Endurance World Championship, carrying confidence and important championship points into the upcoming rounds.

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Photo Credits: Honda Racing