British Superbike champion Ryuichi Kiyonari has spoken of his shock to the recent events in his home country of Japan, which has left areas of the country devastated.

Kiyo, who comes from Saitama, just 30 minutes outside of Tokyo, flew back to the UK from Japan a few weeks ago in preparation for the forthcoming racing season and was joined by his wife Madoka, and son Kouma, only late last week.


Kiyo said:

"Firstly I would like to thank all the fans who have contacted the HM Plant Honda team and also Honda, to ask if my family are ok. Their concern is very kind and I’m pleased to be able to say that my family are safe.

“It is very shocking to see what is happening in Japan now, it is a very bad situation and it is sad to see the news. Some of the places on the news are places I know well or have been to and there is so much devastation - it is just a shock for me and my family. I have spoken to some of my friends and family in Japan and they have been affected but at the moment not as bad as others.

"My home in Japan is ok from the outside, but inside there is some damage, but I am just happy that my wife and baby came to the UK last Thursday just before it happened. I am very sad for all those who have lost friends and family this week and I am going to try and win the first race at Brands Hatch to dedicate to the people back home who have lost so much."