Tarran Mackenzie says he is already relishing the chance to return to Japan in 2024 after showing impressive pace in his last minute call up to compete in the Suzuka 8 Hours.

The Briton was bumped up from his original role as a reserve rider with the FCC TSR Honda team to land a spot in its rider line-up in place of the injured Josh Hook.

Despite the eleventh hour offer, Mackenzie lapped as fast as team-mates Mike di Meglio and Alan Techer during qualifying and the race, helping FCC TSR Honda recover to fourth at the flag after an electronic issues led to di Meglio crashing within the first hour.

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A crucial result for the French outfit, it means FCC TSR Honda take a 14 point lead into the final round of the Endurance World Championship season, the Bol d’Or at Paul Ricard.

“As I only came in as a reserve rider, being asked to ride with the 2022 World Championship  winning team was an amazing opportunity,” he told BSN. 

“We had a difficult first hour with a  crash and technical problem so to fight back to fourth at the flag in my first Suzuka 8 hour race was fantastic. 

“I’ve learned a hard amount this weekend so I’m looking forward to coming back even stronger next year. 

“I have to say a huge thanks to Honda Japan for putting their confidence in me this weekend.”

Mackenzie will next be in action during Round 9 of the 2023 WorldSSP Championship at Magny-Cours in September, where he will be looking to build on his shock victory aboard the MIE Racing Honda CBR600RR at Most.