Source: Supplied.

German Stefan Bradl has been ruled out of this weekend’s Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours in Japan after being hit with an inner-ear infection, advised by medical staff not to fly to Japan this week.

The Red Bull Honda WorldSBK Team regular was due to contest the final round of the Endurance World Championship (EWC) with F.C.C. TSR Honda aboard the all-new CBR1000RR SP2.

“I am unhappy to be missing the Suzuka 8 Hours as I have looked forward to this race all year,” Bradl said. “Unfortunately, the inner-ear infection has led to some damage to the inner-ear and eardrum and doctors told me I should not fly. I felt good at the test and was excited about taking part in the race. I would like to wish all the guys at TSR and Honda good luck for the weekend and I will be cheering them on from home.”

It’s not clear whether TSR Honda will replace Bradl alongside Dominique Aegerter and Randy de Puniet in the event’s 40th edition, with the opening practice session scheduled to commence on Thursday.