After a San Marino Grand Prix in which Johann Zarco finished 12th, Honda faces a major challenge. Zarco, Honda's top rider in the race, crossed the line more than a minute behind winner Marc Marquez and said the current RC213V package was far from competitive.
The rain, which arrived halfway through the race, allowed Johann zarco to pull through despite a disappointing qualification, where he only obtained 16th place. But despite this momentary advantage, the situation remains critical for Honda. zarco, as well as his teammate Takaaki Nakagami, stressed the importance of Monday's official MotoGP tests at Misano to get things back on track.
Johann zarco expressed his expectations regarding these trials, stating: “ nous allons essayer aerodynamic things and a new chassis, because it is clear that we need to change big things to improve the bike. The current project, the one for 2024, is not working at all. New directions need to be explored. » It is obvious that Honda, which once dominated the premier class, is now struggling to compete with its rivals, particularly Ducati et KTM, who are well ahead of the pack.
Johann Zarco: “ new directions must be explored »
Nakagami, which will also participate in testing for the development of the Honda of 2025, added: “ Monday's tests are crucial. We received information from HRC that we will be testing a new aerodynamic package. But we also need to improve chassis rigidity, because this bike lacks a lot of things to be competitive »
The stakes are high for Honda, who hopes that this test will bring improvements before the end of the season. The drivers LCR as zarco et Nakagami, who are the highest ranked among the drivers Honda, are prepared to carry out further tests if their counterparts from the Repsol team, Joan Mir and Luca Marini are still unavailable.
Even the test pilot, Stefan bradl, who tested some new parts during the race weekend, did his best to contribute to the development of the bike. He was pleasantly surprised to have scored points by finishing 14th in uncertain conditions: " I didn't expect much, but when there are raindrops, you never know what can happen. I decided to stay on slicks, and I'm happy to have finished in the points. It's a reward for all those who work hard behind the scenes. »
However, Repsol and Honda's 30-year partnership comes to an end, which adds even more pressure on the factory team. After 13 of the 20 rounds of the season, LCR Honda ahead Repsol Honda in the team rankings, but both teams Honda are at the bottom of the table.
These tests at Misano probably represent the last chance for Honda to make significant progress this season. It is clear that the Japanese manufacturer must find a new direction to become competitive again in MotoGP.
Course MotoGP from the San Marino GP
MotoGP General Ranking
