MV Agusta World Supersport star Gino Rea will make his Suzuka Eight-Hours debut with the Toho Moriwaki Honda team this year.

Rea will partner Tatsuya Yamaguhci and Moto2 rider Ratthapark Wilairot - no stranger to Rea having been his team mate in 2012 whilst racing for the Gresini Team in the Moto2 World Championship. The first test will take place next week from 4th - 6th July followed by another two day test on 13th - 14th July.

“I really can’t wait to get out to Suzuka for the first test! I have wanted to compete in the Suzuka Eight-Hours for a while now so I’m very grateful to the TOHO Racing with Moriwaki Team for giving me this opportunity,” said Rea.

“The test will be important, it’s my first time on a full Superbike but I am really looking forward to it. I’ve raced a CBR Fireblade 1000cc before in the Dutch Championship and rode plenty of 1000cc bikes, so it won’t be too alien to me and I’ve always enjoyed the bigger bike. The team is experienced and I have great team mates so we hope to achieve a great result together.”