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LCR “confident” new Johann Zarco deal key in Honda’s MotoGP resurgence
LCR MotoGP team boss Lucio Cecchinello believes Johann Zarco’s new two-year deal with Honda will be “crucial” in the brand’s resurgence. Zarco, the 35-year-old French rider, joined the LCR satellite Honda team last year after a successful four-year stint on Ducati machinery, which included his maiden win in 2023. Zarco was Honda’s leading rider last year and is currently the highest-placed Honda rider in the 2025 standings, following his victory at the wet French Grand Prix in May. Despite Zarco’s pursuit of a move to the factory HRC squad, LCR announced on September 1st that he had agreed to renew his contract with Honda for two more years. Cecchinello expressed his satisfaction with Honda’s decision to retain Zarco, emphasizing his professionalism and the significant role his development work will play in bringing Honda back to the top of the rankings. Additionally, Honda confirmed the re-signing of Luca Marini for the 2026 season, leaving one seat at LCR to be filled, likely by Moto2 frontrunner Diogo Moreira. This decision comes as just three MotoGP seats at Pramac, LCR, and VR46 respectively remain to be finalized for the next season.
