The 45th edition of the Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours, the third round of the 2024 Endurance World Championship, was held on the Suzuka circuit in Japan.
For Kevin it was the debut in this famous and exciting race, which for riders and motorcycle manufacturers has an inestimable value, comparable to an Olympics.
A week of competition with 8 hours of free practice on Wednesday, including Night Practice.
On Friday, however, another two-hour free practice session and two 25-minute qualifying sessions for each rider who alternates at the handlebars of the same bike, to then arrive on Saturday with another free practice session and on Sunday with the away from the race at 11.30 local time.
Kevin Manfredi was perfect, even in conditions different from the European ones, with a new bike and new tyres, without making any mistakes, always fast and determined.
Team Frontier is very happy with the man from La Spezia, described with a phrase by team manager Noboru Ueda: "Kevin, with you on the bike, I can also remove the telemetry, every sensation you report is precise."
Kevin: “Debuting at the 8H Suzuka was something unique, a real personal and driver experience.
At Suzuka I once again experienced a unique climate from the fans, true enthusiasts, who spent over 12 hours at 35º temperatures and 90% humidity in the stands to support us. In the race I did three stints before the engine broke, including a double stint of 50 laps in total.
At the beginning I didn't think I could do it, but I managed it and I did it with a good race pace.
Unfortunately, my partner's crash at the start of the race slowed us down a lot.
It's a shame, because without the crash and the inconveniences, competing for the top 15 wasn't impossible, and reaching that part of the rankings here is to be considered as a podium.
This experience helped me get to know the track, the conditions and highlight myself for the future, as my goal is to return to Suzuka next year to conquer the top of the rankings.
This race will remain for me one of the best experiences of my career, for this I have to thank Team Frontier for the opportunity and all my sponsors who support me.”
Kevin then closes the 45th edition of the 8H of Suzuka, adding this achievement to his palmares before returning to Italy to focus on the new round of the Italian Speed Championship.
Kevin thanks all the sponsors and technical partners of the 2024 season.
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