Image: Supplied.

Current Australian MotoGP regular Jack Miller will make a highly-anticipated return to endurance racing in 2025, joining the factory Yamaha Racing Team for the prestigious Suzuka 8 Hours in what marks the manufacturer’s first official entry in five years.

The 30-year-old is set to partner with Japanese ace Katsuyuki Nakasuga for the 46th running of the iconic race, in addition to one of Yamaha’s WorldSBK team riders who are yet to be determined.

Miller previously contested the race in 2017, finishing just off the podium in fourth place. He’s been vocal about his desire for another shot at the event – and is now set to do so on factory Yamaha machinery in August.

“It’s obviously a massive honour for me to be able to represent Yamaha at the Suzuka 8 Hours this year,” commented Miller. “It’s a race I’ve been wanting to go back to since 2017 when I finished fourth [and] it’s a big pleasure that I get to ride that Yamaha R1 motorcycle this time and represent the factory Yamaha Racing Team in Japan.

“Like I said, I’ve been dreaming of this race, and to have the opportunity to come back with such a strong team is a massive pleasure. I look forward to hopefully a good result for them at home and receiving some big support from the Japanese fans.”

Miller’s teammate, Nakasuga, brings an extensive resume to the squad, including four Suzuka 8 Hours wins and a record 12 titles in the All Japan JSB1000 Championship. A third rider will be announced soon, with a selection to come from Yamaha’s current WorldSBK roster.

The team will hit the track for two private test days on July 3-4, before official proceedings get underway at Suzuka from August 1. The event culminates with the Top 10 Trial on Saturday and the race on Sunday, August 3.