Johann Zarco remains hopeful about securing another MotoGP win following his “magical” triumph at last year’s French Grand Prix. His victory at Le Mans marked his second MotoGP win, after previously winning the 2023 Australian Grand Prix with the Pramac Ducati Team before switching to LCR Honda in 2024.
Zarco revealed that he initially never expected to achieve a win with Honda, but last year’s success on home soil has fueled his ongoing dream of winning again in the top class. Speaking at the LCR Honda team launch on February 1st, Zarco said, “The goal is to keep dreaming of winning. Last year’s win felt magical, and through all my years of experience, I know the ultimate dream is to compete for a world championship, though I’m uncertain if that’s possible. For now, I aim to at least fight for podium finishes.”
Although Zarco has not yet tested the 2026 MotoGP bike, he participated in the recent Sepang shakedown testing with Honda alongside test rider Aleix Espargaro and his rookie teammate Diogo Moreira. He found encouragement in the impressive pace shown by both riders during the test.
“I’m very pleased with the new Honda’s performance, and the feedback from the riders has been positive,” Zarco said. “Aleix was incredibly quick, and Diogo has adapted well, as shown by the lap times. The bike is fast, which gives us a lot of hope for the 2026 season.”
Zarco’s personal test schedule will begin on February 3rd, during the official Sepang testing, although the full plan is still being finalized. “We do have a testing plan in progress,” he shared. “The team is fine-tuning some details. I’m looking forward to returning to Malaysia after the winter break to get back on the bike, despite the warm weather. I’m focused on maintaining this positive feeling and starting the season strongly.”
Fan Take: Zarco’s optimism and the promising early tests for the LCR Honda team are thrilling for racing fans, signaling a potential shake-up in a sport often dominated by a few favorites. If Zarco can build on last year’s momentum, it could mean more intense competition and exciting races ahead in the MotoGP calendar.
