Lucio Cecchinello doesn't mince words when discussing Johann Zarco's current situation. The LCR Honda team boss offers a clear-eyed, almost bitter, assessment of his French rider's end to the season. Between his role as a test rider, repeated crashes, and a loss of form, the 2025 season has turned into a real struggle.
« Johann has to be a test driver during the racesAnd it's difficult under these conditions. ", recognize Cecchinello.
The Italian manager emphasizes the impossible mission entrusted to his driver: to develop the Honda in the midst of competition, while remaining competitive.
« He often rides two different motorcycles.because we need to compare several technical solutions at the same time »
The result: no stability, changing sensations with each lap, and crumbling confidence.
Since his historic victory at Grand Prix of France and his podium finish at Silverstone zarco has experienced a downward spiral. He lost confidence " admits Cecchinello, without beating around the bush.
The multiple tests, experimental adjustments and successive crashes have weakened a driver who was nevertheless renowned for his mental strength.
« He hasn't forgotten how to fly. But when you're constantly changing your setup, you can no longer find your rhythm.And when trust is disappearingeverything becomes more complicated »
« Johann Zarco deserves better, and we will do everything to finally give him the bike he deserves. »
Cecchinello don't hide on GP One the limitations of the RC213V, a machine " which remains demanding in the corners, especially for a smaller pilot like Johann ».
Honda continues to search for the right technical direction, but the task remains colossal: We try to improve the bike at every race, but sometimes, It's one step forward and two steps back. »
Despite the frustration, the boss of LCR wants to remain pragmatic. our goal is clear: to finish as the best Honda and aim for the top 10 of the championship »
A modest goal for a former world runner-up, but realistic given the current situation of the Japanese manufacturer.
Between his role as a “developer in the race” and a Honda always unstable John Zarco must grit his teeth until the very last round.
Cecchinello However, he still has faith in his pilot: Johann is an exemplary professionalHe deserves better, and we will do everything to finally give him the motorcycle he deserves. »
Suffering from the burden of development and a machine that is still being tamed, zarco He is undoubtedly experiencing one of the most complex phases of his career — but not the last. As always, the Frenchman will not surrender without a fight.
