Suzuka, Japan, July 24 (ANI): Yamaha Motor secured second place at the 2026 Suzuka Endurance Motorcycle Race, held at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan.
The prestigious event challenges riders to compete continuously for eight hours, covering approximately 1,200 kilometers. It is regarded as one of the world’s premier endurance motorcycle races and features many of the sport’s top riders.
Yamaha Motor fielded two teams in this year’s race. The Yamaha Factory Racing Team included MotoGP riders, making the event a valuable opportunity to gather engineering feedback and further develop its motorcycles with input from world-class competitors.
To support its teams, Yamaha Motor sent 560 employees to the event, including more than 260 newly hired employees.
Motofumi Shitara, CEO of Yamaha Motor, said, “Motor racing is at the heart of Yamaha Motor’s DNA. I hope our recruits understand the company’s origins and racing spirit. Wearing the same blue shirt, we work together as one team. The Suzuka 8 Hours is an ideal opportunity for newcomers to experience Yamaha’s heritage firsthand. The technological advances achieved through racing are fed back into our products and manufacturing. I hope our new recruits recognize that innovation is everyone’s responsibility and carry that spirit into their own work.”
Asumi Takasugi, a new recruit, said, “The power and dynamic sound filled me with excitement.”
Shunya Ikeda, another new recruit, said, “I was thrilled by the engine’s powerful sound and vibrations.”
Youmei Umagoe, also a new recruit, said, “I hope to share this unforgettable experience with customers in my future job.”
Yuna Buzoujima, another new recruit, said, “Everyone wore the same uniform and waved the same flag to cheer for the riders. I felt a strong sense of unity and really enjoyed the experience.”
Shitara added, “As demand in overseas markets grows, motorcycles are evolving from simple means of transportation into something people enjoy. I hope to share the culture and joy of riding motorcycles. In many countries, motorsports are thriving, and I believe this will further increase demand for motorcycles and other vehicles. Contributing to that growth is a source of pride for us.”
Yamaha Motor’s strong performance earned the company a runner-up finish at the 2026 Suzuka Endurance Motorcycle Race. The experience inspired employees and is expected to help drive the company’s future innovation. (ANI)
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