The sun rises over a new MotoGP season, bringing with it Johann Zarco’s hope to shine once again. The presentation of the LCR team’s colours took place against a blue-white-red backdrop, evoking national pride. Following a memorable victory at the 2025 French GP, the French rider has grand ambitions for 2026 and hopes to benefit from the progress made by Honda.
A Strong Comeback for Honda
The last season was marked by significant progress for Honda. After a difficult start to the championship, the team began to catch up in the second half, providing Zarco with more competitive performances. Although he struggled to fully exploit the developments on his bike, the rider seems optimistic about his manufacturer’s upward trajectory. “I want to fight for the podium regularly,” he explains, combining realism with ambition.
A Podium Goal and More, If Possible
“The goal is to keep dreaming of a victory,” Zarco admits on the official MotoGP website. This statement sounds like a mantra for the rider, who still remembers his surprise win last year. With increasing experience, he now aims higher: “The dream is to fight for a world championship title, but I’m not sure if that’s feasible yet. At the very least, I want to seize every podium opportunity.”
Lucio Cecchinello, the head of the LCR team, shares this ambition and hopes to see his rider among the top 5 in the championship, a position he held after his second podium in Silverstone 2025. “In MotoGP, anything can happen,” he emphasises with a spark of hope. “Races are exciting for this reason. All riders can win.”
Johann Zarco showcases his ambitions with Honda for the 2026 season.
Encouraging Signs in Pre-Season
The first tests in Sepang herald bright days for Zarco. Aleix Espargaró, Honda’s test rider, achieved impressive times during the shakedown test. Meanwhile, Diogo Moreira, Zarco’s teammate, also seems to be quickly adapting to the machine. “I am very pleased with the performance of the new Honda,” says Zarco. “The feedback from the riders is excellent. Aleix was very fast, and Diogo is adapting quickly. The times are there, which gives a lot of hope for the 2026 season.”
Expectations and Preparations Ahead of the Season
The testing schedule is full, and Zarco is already preparing for his next test on Tuesday. “The team is working on some adjustments,” he explains. “After the winter break, it is always a pleasure to return to Malaysia, even though we know it will be hot. We have time to get back into the rhythm and try to regain those good feelings to start the season well.”
With a combination of determination and technical support, Zarco seems ready to face the upcoming challenges. The 2026 season promises to be exciting, and MotoGP fans can expect to see the French rider fighting for his dreams.
