The 8 Suzuka 2020 Hours will not take place. Tightening entry restrictions into Japan do not allow international teams and drivers to travel to Suzuka. In agreement with the FIM and Eurosport Events, promoter of the FIM Endurance World Championship, Mobilityland, organizer of the Suzuka 8Hours, has decided to cancel the 2020 edition.
Rescheduled for November 1 due to the global health crisis, the 43rd edition of the Suzuka 8 Hours will not take place in 2020. This cancellation is the first since the creation of the event in 1978.
The situation linked to the Covid-19 pandemic remains worrying in Japan and the government has decided not to lift access facilities to its territory for foreigners, even for professional trips. International drivers and major teams have always enlivened the Suzuka 8 Hours which has become the Grand Final of the FIM EWC World Championship. In their absence, this grand final would become a national race. Mobilityland has therefore decided to cancel this 2020 edition.
Kaoru Tanaka, President Representative Director of Mobilityland Corporation:
« We were ready to organize the “Coca-Cola” Suzuka 8 Hours on November 1st with all the fans and those involved in Endurance. Unfortunately, we have no choice but to cancel this event due to the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic in Japan and abroad and the extension of entry restrictions for foreign visitors to Japan.
We apologize to all fans who were looking forward to attending the Suzuka 8 Hours which was originally postponed from July to November. We also extend our sincerest regrets to all those who were preparing to participate in this race. We count on their understanding and cooperation for the future. »
« In conclusion, know that we are determined to work to make the 8 Suzuka 2021 Hours more attractive than ever for fans. »
François Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events:
« We worked extensively with Mobilityland to reschedule the race from July to November, a first since 1978, and then to make it easier for international teams and drivers to come to Japan thanks to a special visa. Our hopes have faded in the face of restrictions on foreigners entering Japan. Spectator access did not factor into the decision to cancel the Coca Cola Suzuka 8 Hours 2020. This decision was taken because this legendary event cannot be limited to a national race. The Suzuka 8 Hours, the most prestigious endurance race in the world for over 40 years, cannot be contested without the best international drivers. »
Jorge Viegas, President of the International Motorcycling Federation
« The cancellation of the iconic Suzuka 8 Hours race is really very sad news, but we must accept the decision of the Japanese government which takes into account safety measures for the health of the population. In these difficult times, I would like to thank all the efforts made by our promoter Eurosport Events, the organizer Mobilityland and the Japanese federation MFJ. All fans can be sure that we will return in 2021 with an unforgettable race! »
