Yamaha’s MotoGP test rider and Suzuka stalwart Kats Nakasuga will make his third appearance in the championship when he wildcards on a third YZR-M1 at Motegi later in the year.

The Japanese rider, who partnered Josh Brookes and Broc Parkes at this year’s Eight-Hours, came second in a rain-lashed Valencia race at the end of 2012 and will ride a Yamalube-livered third works M1.

I'm glad to be able to compete again this year in my home country's Grand Prix of Japan in the world's pinnacle class of road racing, MotoGP. There's no greater competitive arena for a motorcycle racer like myself,” he said.

“Since I'll be riding the YZR-M1 that I'm involved in developing as a test rider, my participation will naturally involve development evaluation. But, I also want to put in a ‘Katsuyuki Nakasuga' style performance that will live up to the expectations of the fans that have rooted for me. I hope everyone will come to the circuit to cheer me on."