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Johann Zarco admits he is “thinking about how to stay” at LCR Honda in an apparent U-turn in his plans for the 2026 season.
Johann Zarco is considering staying at LCR Honda for the 2026 MotoGP season, marking a shift from his previous plans. He currently leads the Honda riders’ standings with 97 points, following strong performances at Silverstone and Le Mans. Zarco had initially hoped his victory at the French Grand Prix would secure him a spot in the factory Honda team. However, discussions with LCR team boss Lucio Cecchinello have potentially led to a change of heart, with Zarco now aiming to be the top rider in the Honda team. The future of Luca Marini, the current factory Honda rider, remains uncertain, as attention turns to potentially signing World Champion Jorge Martin or KTM’s Pedro Acosta for the upcoming season. Honda’s team boss, Alberto Puig, had initially ruled out approaching Martin due to his existing contract with Aprilia, but Martin has since activated a clause allowing for his release in 2026. Both Martin and Acosta are represented by Albert Valera, making them attractive prospects for Honda.
