Nakasuga gets MotoGP wild-card at Motegi

Katsuyuki Nakasuga will make his latest wild-card appearance, riding a fifth Factory class Yamaha, in this weekend's Japanese MotoGP at Motegi.

Nakasuga is involved in the development of the YZR-M1 and has made seven occasional grand prix starts stretching back to 2002.

Four of those have been in the premier-class, including his most famous performance - a second place, from 16th on the grid, during changeable weather at the 2012 Valencia round.

This time he will be entered as a member of the 'Yamalube Racing Team with YSP' with his main goal being to evaluate the latest M1 developments in actual race conditions.

"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," said Nakasuga. "There's no greater competitive arena for a motorcycle racer like myself.

"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."

Nakasuga, 33, is a four-time champion of the JSB1000 class of the All Japan Road Race Championships (2008, 2009, 2012, 2013), and he is competing again this year with the aim of winning his third consecutive title in this class.

The four full-time M1 riders are Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo at the official team, plus Pol Espargaro and Bradley Smith at Tech 3.